Portugal entered their second match of the 2026 World Cup under pressure after opening with a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo. Roberto Martinez’s team, which has lost only once in its last 14 matches in all competitions, needs a win over Uzbekistan to strengthen its chances and avoid early elimination. Cristiano Ronaldo started, alongside Pedro Neto and Joao Felix, with Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha in midfield.
Uzbekistan arrived after losing 3-1 to Colombia in their first-ever World Cup match. A draw would still be a major result for Fabio Cannavaro’s side and would keep alive a realistic chance of reaching the round of 32. This is the first meeting between the two national teams, and Portugal had failed to win its two previous games against Asian Football Confederation opponents.
The match was played at NRG Stadium in Houston, with Jalal Jayed of Morocco as referee. Portugal lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, while Uzbekistan used a 5-3-2. Early on, Bruno Fernandes tested the defense from inside the box, but his shot was blocked for a corner. A few minutes later, Nuno Mendes delivered a dangerous cross from the flank and Ronaldo slid in but missed the ball by a narrow margin.
In Group J, Colombia led after one round with three points, while Portugal and the Democratic Republic of Congo each had one point and Uzbekistan had none. The group schedule continued on June 24, when Colombia played the Democratic Republic of Congo in Guadalajara, followed by the final round on June 28, with Colombia facing Portugal in Miami and the Democratic Republic of Congo meeting Uzbekistan in Atlanta.
