World Cup 2026: Portugal target first win against Uzbekistan at NRG Stadium

Roberto Martínez, Portugal’s coach since 2023, is relying on an attacking team led by Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, still a starter and an iconic figure for the national side. Uzbekistan, under the guidance of Fabio Cannavaro, the 2006 world champion, offer a more defensive setup with the aim of exploiting counterattacks. This clash therefore pits a Portugal side accustomed to major competitions against an Uzbek team making its World Cup debut and counting on key figures Eldor Shomurodov and Abbosbek Fayzullaev.

After the group’s opening results, Portugal have not yet secured qualification and must quickly collect points. Uzbekistan need to recover from their heavy opening defeat to stay in contention and hope for an upset. The style of play will be a key element to watch — Portugal’s possession and attacking game against a compact, organised Uzbek block.

This match will also be an opportunity to see how Roberto Martínez sets up his 4-2-3-1 with players such as Diogo Costa in goal, João Cancelo and Rúben Dias in defence, while relying on Bruno Fernandes and João Félix in support of striker Cristiano Ronaldo. For his part, Fabio Cannavaro lines up a 3-4-2-1 with Abduvokhid Nematov in goal, a three-man defence and a packed midfield to contain Portugal’s attacks.

Focus on Portugal

Portugal adopt a classic 4-2-3-1 under Roberto Martínez. Diogo Costa guards the goal behind a defence made up of João Cancelo on the right, Rúben Dias and Renato Veiga in central defence, and Nuno Mendes on the left. The double pivot is provided by João Neves and Vitinha, bringing balance between ball recovery and build-up play. Ahead of them, the attacking trio consists of Pedro Neto, Bruno Fernandes and João Félix, technically assured and capable of driving the game. Cristiano Ronaldo is positioned up front, leading the attack and bringing experience to the group. This organisation is designed for fluid play with strong possession and numerous attacking options.

Portugal’s bench offers varied solutions with players such as Bernardo Silva, Gonçalo Ramos and Rafael Leão, who are capable of changing the tempo and attacking dimension during the match. The coach is banking on a solid defensive base and technical control in midfield to get beyond the middle third and create clear chances.

Focus on Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan play in a 3-4-2-1 under Fabio Cannavaro, favouring a defensive organisation to withstand Portugal’s pressing and limit space. Abduvokhid Nematov keeps goal, with a three-man defensive line including Abdukodir Khusanov, Abdulla Abdullaev and Rustam Ashurmatov. The four-man midfield features Bekhruz Karimov, Odiljon Khamrobekov, Otabek Shukurov and Sherzod Nasrullaev to secure the central areas and launch counterattacks.

Attacking support is provided by Abbosbek Fayzullaev and Azizjon Ganiev, while striker Eldor Shomurodov represents the main attacking threat. The Uzbek team will look to rely on its collective solidity and tactical discipline to contain Portugal while taking any opportunity in quick transition.

The encounter promises to be tactical, with Portugal seeking to impose their rhythm and experience against the rigorous organisation of an Uzbek team determined to record their first points in the competition.