Portugal and Uzbekistan face off in their second Group K match of the 2026 World Cup tonight, with both teams seeking their first win of the tournament. Portugal were held to a surprise 1-1 draw by DR Congo, while Uzbekistan, the first Central Asian nation to qualify for a World Cup, lost 3-1 to Colombia.
Ronaldo debate continues
The main talking point around Portugal remains the role of 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo. After the forward was criticised for not passing to Bruno Fernandes in a goalscoring position, Thierry Henry commented: “The team needs to score, not you.” Manager Roberto Martinez has kept faith with Ronaldo, but the team's attacking output has been questioned. Portugal's midfield, featuring Fernandes, Vitinha, Ruben Neves, and new Real Madrid signing Bernardo Silva, is widely regarded as one of the tournament's best, but against DR Congo they managed only one shot on target – an early header from Neves.
Match details and how to watch
Portugal vs Uzbekistan kicks off at 6pm BST on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. In the UK, the match will be televised live on ITV1, with coverage starting at 5pm BST. Viewers can also stream the game live via the ITVX app or the channel's website. Highlights will be available on FIFA's official YouTube channel and ITVX.
Team news
Portugal's squad includes goalkeeper Diogo Costa, defenders Ruben Dias (who was not 100% fit for the opener, according to Martinez), Diogo Dalot, Joao Cancelo, and Nuno Mendes, along with midfielders and forwards like Joao Felix, Rafael Leao, and Goncalo Ramos. Uzbekistan's key player is Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov, 21, who moved to City for £40 million last year. Their goalscorer against Colombia, Abbosbek Fayzullaev, is also a threat. Veteran striker Eldor Shomurodov, with 44 goals in 93 caps, is considered the real dangerman for Uzbekistan.
Prediction
Portugal's midfield strength should allow them to control the game, but they struggled to create chances against DR Congo. Uzbekistan lack experience at this level, and a single goal could decide the match. Prediction: Portugal win 1-0.
Head to head and odds
The two sides have never met before. Odds from World Cup betting sites are subject to change. Gambling can be addictive; always play responsibly. For support, visit BeGambleAware or Gamcare.
