Portugal's journey at the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to an end in the Round of 16. A late goal from Spain sealed a 1-0 defeat for A Seleção das Quinas, eliminating them from the tournament.
The loss to their Iberian rivals on July 6th halted a campaign that had started promisingly. Roberto Martínez's side finished second in their group behind Colombia, collecting five points from one win and two draws. Their record of six goals scored and only one conceded highlighted a strong defensive foundation. However, a recent dip in form, losing their last two matches, ultimately proved decisive, as covered in a report by Squawka.
How did Portugal's World Cup campaign unfold?
Portugal entered the World Cup with confidence after winning the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League. The team navigated the group stage unbeaten. They opened with a comeback 2-1 win over Croatia, which featured a late Croatian equalizer being ruled out by VAR. This was followed by a goalless draw with DR Congo and a victory over Uzbekistan. Their final group game was a draw against Colombia, which secured top spot for the South American side.
This solid start did not translate to the knockout phase. Spain's solitary, late goal in the last-16 tie ended Portuguese hopes of matching or bettering their best-ever finish of third place from 1966. The side also reached the semi-finals in 2006, but the World Cup trophy remains elusive.
What is Cristiano Ronaldo's legacy with the national team?
Cristiano Ronaldo led the side as captain, a role he has held since 2007. The forward, for whom this is reported to be his final World Cup, further cemented his legendary status during the tournament. Ronaldo overtook Eusebio to become Portugal's all-time top scorer in World Cups, with 10 goals. Overall, he holds the national records for caps (230) and goals (145).
His international career, however, concludes without football's biggest prize. The last-16 exit follows a quarter-final loss to Morocco at the 2022 World Cup and a quarter-final exit at UEFA Euro 2024.
How has manager Roberto Martínez performed?
Roberto Martínez took over as head coach in January 2023, replacing Fernando Santos. The Spaniard brought experience from six years in charge of Belgium's 'Golden Generation', albeit without winning silverware. In his first 30 matches with Portugal, Martínez recorded 25 wins and five defeats, a run that included the Nations League triumph.
His tactical approach and management of a squad filled with talent like Bruno Fernandes and João Cancelo were tested on the world stage. Fernandes, for instance, was pivotal in qualifying with three goals and an assist in a 9-1 rout of Armenia. In total, he has 28 goals and 24 assists in 85 caps, averaging a goal contribution every 1.6 games. You can find more individual statistics on our stats page.
What is next for the Portugal national team?
With the World Cup over, the focus turns to the future and rebuilding. The next scheduled fixture is a friendly at home against Wales on September 24th. This match will be the first opportunity for Martínez and his squad to begin preparations for the next cycle.
The team currently sits second in their qualifying group for the next major tournament, two points behind leaders Colombia. Their record of one win, two draws, and zero losses from three games provides a solid base. Fans can follow the team's progress and the full schedule in our fixtures section. The long-term goal remains unchanged: to learn from the 2026 experience and return stronger in pursuit of the missing title.
