This piece is part of the World Cup 2026 Experts’ Network, a collaboration among top media outlets from the 48 nations that qualified. Daily previews are being published leading up to the tournament’s commencement on June 11.
The Strategy
Portugal has secured its ninth appearance in the World Cup and its seventh consecutive qualification with relative ease, although a home draw against Hungary in October and a loss to Ireland in November postponed the celebrations until the final matchday. In that decisive game, Roberto Martínez’s squad triumphed over Armenia with a staggering score of 9-1, despite Cristiano Ronaldo being absent due to a red card received in Dublin.
Diversity is the hallmark of this team. Martínez effectively utilizes the tactical flexibility of his players: João Neves and Matheus Nunes can function as either full-backs or midfielders (sometimes even within the same match); João Cancelo and Diego Dalot are adept on both wings; and Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva frequently interchange their positions. Although this fluidity exists, the coach’s selection remains consistent, with at least seven positions in the starting lineup being considered “untouchable.” The core of the team is well established, featuring key players like Diogo Costa, Rúben Dias, Fernandes, Silva, and Ronaldo, complemented by the reliable Nuno Mendes and Vitinha.
Portugal: Group K Matches
June 17 vs. DR Congo, Houston (noon local time, 6 PM BST, June 18 3 AM AEST)
June 23 vs. Uzbekistan, Houston (noon local time, 6 PM BST, June 24 3 AM AEST)
June 27 vs. Colombia, Miami (7:30 PM local time, June 28 0:30 AM BST, June 28 9:30 AM AEST)
“We achieved ten consecutive victories on the path to Euro 2024, but the team was not as prepared then as it is now. Challenges help us evolve,” Martínez remarked following their qualification. “Previously, we lacked the resilience to secure titles. In the Nations League, we responded effectively when Germany and Spain scored, ultimately winning the tournament. That’s our current mindset; we need to prepare thoroughly.”
Martínez emphasizes the importance of his players pouring their hearts into the game and embodying the values of the Portuguese people. However, there lies a deeply personal motivation this time around following the tragic events of 2025. “It is my duty to fight for Diogo’s dream,” states the coach, who has honored the memory of Jota and his brother André Silva by including Jota’s name in his squad announcements. “He [Jota] represents our strength and our joy. His spirit, resilience, and example continue to inspire us and will always be our driving force.”
The Head Coach
Roberto Martínez was on the brink of departing the national team a year ago, with José Mourinho poised to take over, but his victory in the Nations League solidified his position, earning him support from the new president of the Portuguese Football Federation, former international referee Pedro Proença. Although he experienced his first qualifying phase defeat after 43 matches, the Spanish coach secured his third World Cup appearance, having previously led Belgium twice, without significant stress. However, this does not guarantee the conclusion of his tenure with Portugal this summer, even if they succeed. “The president and I share the same vision: our focus is on the World Cup. It’s not about wanting or not wanting; it’s not even a topic we’re discussing. The World Cup is a priority, but the manager’s situation can wait,” he noted in March, maintaining an air of mystery.
Star of the Team
While it’s improbable that Cristiano Ronaldo will mark his 1,000th career goal during this World Cup, his proximity to this milestone underscores his relentless ambition. At 41, he is set to participate in the tournament for a record sixth time, having previously played 22 matches and scored eight goals. As a living legend, the captain embodies the aspirations of a nation eager to add a World Cup trophy to their Euro 2016 victory. He continues to attract fans and defenders alike, destined to provoke chants, selfies, and viral moments. “The dream ended,” Ronaldo expressed on social media in 2022 after Portugal’s quarter-final exit against Morocco. Four years later, he returns to pursue “the biggest and most ambitious dream” of his career one final time. There’s no telling when this extraordinary journey will conclude. “People assume that when I mention retiring soon, it means in six months or a year. I’m just joking!”
A Player to Watch
“Inácio was a backup left-back for the under-23s and under-19s. Some players can surprise you.” These words from Ruben Amorim reflect the ascension of Gonçalo Inácio at Sporting. Although he possesses a modest and introverted demeanor, the center-back has emerged as a key figure for his club and one of its captains. He sheds his shyness with each line-breaking pass, a signature skill that will be crucial for Portugal in this World Cup. Having already participated in Euro 2024 and contributed to last year’s Nations League triumph, he heads into the tournament with newfound stature as the leading candidate to partner Rúben Dias in defense.
The Unsung Hero
Although he still has to win over global fans due to the lesser visibility of the Portuguese league, Diogo Costa is a stalwart of safety in goal. The Porto captain is a worthy heir to Vítor Baía for both club and country. Since 2022, he has been Portugal’s No. 1 keeper and is preparing for his second World Cup. Agile between the posts and exceptional with his feet, he is also a penalty-saving expert; he notably saved three consecutive penalties against Slovenia in the Euro 2024 last 16. “Diogo is Portugal’s secret; he is European football’s best-kept secret,” Martínez remarked at the time. Costa also played a pivotal role in the Nations League final last year, making a decisive save against a crucial Spanish penalty.
Projected Starting Lineup
What to Anticipate from Fans
While attending a World Cup in North America comes with high costs, Portuguese fans are known for their unwavering loyalty. They will travel in large numbers, particularly as the team makes progress. Although they may not always dominate the stands in numbers, their presence will be palpable. While some fans struggle to set aside club rivalries (even in their choice of attire), the green and red of the national flag will be prominent, often displayed on jerseys featuring Ronaldo’s name. The atmosphere is typically vibrant but non-aggressive, characterized by uplifting chants and a hint of humor. Portuguese supporters are generally relaxed, peaceful, and leave a positive impression on their host nations.
Relationship with the U.S. and Trump
Donald Trump elicits mixed opinions in Portugal, mirroring sentiments elsewhere. The use of the Lajes air base in the Azores for American military operations remains a contentious political topic. The football federation has endeavored to sidestep sensitive discussions related to the tournament’s organization, with fans focusing more on the steep costs of tickets and travel. Although Trump seldom mentions Portugal specifically, he did host Cristiano Ronaldo at the White House in November during a visit from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
