This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among premier media organizations from the 48 nations that qualified. As the tournament approaches, previews from three countries are being released daily leading up to the kickoff on June 11.
Portugal’s Qualification Journey
Portugal achieved their ninth World Cup entry, marking their seventh consecutive appearance, with relative ease. Although a home draw against Hungary in October and a loss to Ireland in November postponed their celebrations until the final matchday, they ultimately triumphed in that decisive game with a resounding 9-1 victory over Armenia, despite being without Cristiano Ronaldo, who was red-carded in Dublin.
The team’s strength lies in its diversity. Under Roberto Martínez’s guidance, players like João Neves and Matheus Nunes can adapt to various roles as full-backs or midfielders, often within the same match. João Cancelo and Diogo Dalot are equally versatile, playing adeptly on either side, while Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva frequently swap positions. Despite this flexibility, the coach maintains a stable selection process, with at least seven positions in the starting lineup considered “We won 10 games in a row on the road to Euro 2024, but the team wasn’t as prepared then as it is now. Challenges help you grow,” Key figures such as Diogo Costa, Rúben Dias, Fernandes, Silva, and Ronaldo form a solid spine, complemented by consistent starters like Nuno Mendes and Vitinha.
Martínez expressed his pride in the team’s growth, stating, “Back then, we lacked the resilience needed to win titles. In the Nations League, it was different. We reacted when Germany scored, when Spain scored, and we won the tournament. That is where we are now. We must prepare well.” He reflected on their resilience during the Nations League, noting, “It is a responsibility to fight for Diogo’s dream,”
This World Cup carries a personal significance for Martínez following the tragic events of 2025. “He [Jota] is our strength and our joy. His spirit, his strength and his example are the driving force, and they always will be.” he remarked, referencing the late Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva. “The president and I are aligned: the focus is the World Cup. It’s not a matter of wanting or not wanting; it’s not on the table. The World Cup cannot wait, but the manager’s situation can,”
Coaching Leadership
Roberto Martínez was on the verge of departing from the national team a year ago, with José Mourinho waiting in the wings, but his success in the Nations League solidified his position with the new FPF president, Pedro Proença. Although he faced his first qualifying loss after 43 matches, the Spanish coach has secured his third World Cup appearance, having previously led Belgium twice. Nonetheless, the coaching tenure may conclude this summer, regardless of the team’s success. “the biggest and most ambitious dream” he stated in March, maintaining an air of uncertainty around his future.
Spotlight on Cristiano Ronaldo
While it seems improbable that Cristiano Ronaldo will mark his 1,000th career goal during this World Cup, his proximity to that achievement highlights his relentless ambition. At 41, he is set to compete in the tournament for a record sixth time, having previously played 22 matches and scored eight goals in earlier editions. As a national icon, he embodies the aspirations of a country eager to complement their Euro 2016 triumph with a World Cup title. Ronaldo continues to attract attention from fans and defenders alike, inspiring chants, selfies, and memorable moments. “People think when I talk about retiring soon, it means in six months or a year. I’m joking!” he wrote on social media in 2022 after Portugal’s quarter-final elimination against Morocco. Now, four years later, he returns to pursue “Inácio was a backup left-back for the under-23s and under-19s. Some players can surprise you.” of his career for one last time. “Portugal’s secret is Diogo; he is European football’s best-kept secret,”
Emerging Talent
“Inácio was a backup left-back for the under-23s and under-19s. Some players can surprise you,”
commented Ruben Amorim, the coach who has nurtured Gonçalo Inácio’s development at Sporting. Although he is naturally reserved, the centre-back has established himself as a crucial player and one of the captains of his club. He displays his growing confidence with line-breaking passes, a skill that will be essential for Portugal in this World Cup. Having already participated in Euro 2024 and contributed to last year’s Nations League victory, he enters the tournament as the leading candidate to partner Rúben Dias in defense.
Diogo Costa: The Unsung Hero
Although Diogo Costa may still need to win over international fans due to the lesser visibility of the Portuguese league, he remains a cornerstone of reliability. The Porto captain is a deserving successor to Vítor Baía for both club and country. Serving as Portugal’s No. 1 since 2022, he is gearing up for his second World Cup. Agile between the posts and proficient with his feet, he is also known for his penalty-saving prowess, famously stopping three consecutive penalties against Slovenia in the Euro 2024 last 16. “Portugal’s secret is Diogo; he is European football’s best-kept secret,” Martínez remarked at the time. Costa proved equally decisive in the Nations League final last year, saving a vital penalty from Spain.
Anticipated Starting Lineup
Fan Culture at the World Cup
Despite the high costs associated with a World Cup in North America, Portuguese fans are known for their unwavering loyalty. They are expected to be present in significant numbers as the tournament progresses. While they may not always outnumber other supporters, their presence will certainly be impactful. Some fans may struggle to set aside club rivalries, evident even in their choice of attire, but the green and red of their national flag will dominate, often showcased on jerseys emblazoned with Ronaldo’s name. The support from Portuguese fans is typically enthusiastic yet non-aggressive, characterized by encouraging chants and moments of humor. Generally, they are viewed as relaxed and peaceful, leaving a positive impression on host nations.
Political Context and U.S. Relations
Donald Trump elicits mixed feelings in Portugal, much like elsewhere. The utilization of the Lajes air base in the Azores for American military operations remains a contentious issue. The football federation has opted to steer clear of sensitive discussions regarding the tournament’s organization, with fans more focused on the steep costs of tickets and travel. While Trump seldom mentions Portugal directly, he did host Cristiano Ronaldo at the White House in November during a visit by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
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