Portugal's national team was knocked out by Spain in the 2026 World Cup round of 16, losing 2‑1 in the match played on Monday, July 6. Individual play improved, but it wasn't enough to progress.

Why didn't Portugal advance?

Even with 20.4 dribbles per game – almost double the 9.8 recorded in 2022 – the side created only 2.4 chances per match, 17% fewer than in Qatar. Rafael Leão led with 11 dribbles, followed by Nuno Mendes (7) and João Cancelo (6). Poor offensive efficiency, with just 1.4 clear‑cut chances per game, ultimately cost the progression.

How did the collective play evolve?

Portugal completed 516 accurate passes per game, 3% higher than the 498 in 2022, thanks to Vitinha, André Veiga and Rúben Neves steering the ball. Goalkeeper Diogo Silva made 19 saves, twice the 11 from the last edition, and was decisive in the 2‑1 win over Croatia on July 2, 2026.

What do the numbers indicate for the future?

The team finished the tournament with five matches, as in 2022, but the expansion to 48 nations didn't bring an advantage. The next fixture is against Wales at home on September 24, 2026. Meanwhile, Portugal is in good form: the last five games record 3 wins and 2 draws, with a two‑game winning streak.

Where can the team improve?

The main gap was chance conversion. Despite more dribbles and passes, the side squandered seven good opportunities, compared with ten in the previous edition. Defense stayed solid, but the lack of final‑third creativity prevented a score change against Spain, who dominated the decisive moments.

Last result: Portugal 2‑1 Croatia (2026‑07‑02).