Portugal face Uzbekistan on Tuesday in search of their first victory at the 2026 World Cup, after being held to a stunning 1-1 draw by the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening Group H fixture. Roberto Martinez's side took an early lead through Joao Neves, who scored a glancing header in the sixth minute, but Yoane Wissa equalised for the African side in first-half stoppage time.
Midfield Trio Shines for Portugal
The midfield trio of Joao Neves, Vitinha, and Bruno Fernandes has been widely praised as one of the tournament's best. Neves and Vitinha, club-mates at Paris Saint-Germain, anchor the midfield, while Manchester United captain and Premier League player of the season Bruno Fernandes operates as the No10. This combination will be key against Uzbekistan as Portugal aim to secure their first win.
Cristiano Ronaldo Starts Despite Age Debate
Cristiano Ronaldo continues to lead the line at 41 years old, becoming the oldest outfield player ever to feature in a World Cup during the DR Congo match. Debate persists over his role, but Martinez has confirmed he will start against Uzbekistan. The attack is likely to feature Bernardo Silva on the right and Pedro Neto on the left, though AC Milan's Rafael Leao could replace Neto to add more goal threat.
Defensive Adjustments and Predicted Lineup
At left-back, Nuno Mendes is expected to start, with Joao Cancelo on the right. However, Cancelo switched to left-back when Nelson Semedo came on against DR Congo, suggesting flexibility. In central defence, Ruben Dias was not fit for the opener, so Tomas Araujo and Renato Veiga are likely to continue, ahead of highly-rated options like Antonio Silva and Goncalo Inacio. Diogo Costa remains the undisputed goalkeeper.
Predicted Portugal XI (4-2-3-1): Costa; Cancelo, Araujo, Veiga, Mendes; Vitinha, Neves; Silva, Fernandes, Leao; Ronaldo.
Match Details
The match kicks off at 6pm BST on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. Coverage is available on ITV.
