Is Cristiano Ronaldo playing? Portugal vs Uzbekistan confirmed lineups for the 2026 World Cup Group K game
worldsoccertalk.com · last month
Portugal and Uzbekistan face each other in their second Group K match. Needing a victory to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive, head coach Roberto Martínez could need the goal-scoring firepower of Cristiano Ronaldo. As a result, fans are closely monitoring his status ahead of the match. After their disappointing draw against DR Congo, Portugal have called into question their top contender status for the 2026 World Cup. However, they have the chance to make a statement, as they face Uzbekistan in their second Group K match. To that end, head coach Roberto Martínez would implement a strong attacking setup, aiming to get Cristiano Ronaldo into a scoring rhythm. As a result, fans are closely monitoring his status ahead of the match. Cristiano Ronaldo will start for Portugal, as he has no apparent injuries or suspensions. While he did not manage to score on his debut, he remains a cornerstone for Roberto Martínez. In addition, he comes off an impressive season with Al Nassr, which he will aim to translate into his national team performances. As one of the greatest goal scorers in history, he arrives with the clear objective of scoring his first goal of the 2026 World Cup. Alongside Cristiano, Roberto Martinez will bet again on Pedro Neto, but also including Joao Felix. In the creative side, Bruno Fernandes will also start, looking to break again the strong defense setup. Unlike the last game, Ruben Dias will start alongside Renato Veiga. Controlling the pace of the game, Vitinha and Joao Neves will start, looking to deliver a huge impact. Uzbekistan will maintain their defensive approach, implementing a strong double defensive line. With this setup, head coach Fabio Cannavaro would aim to complicate Cristiano Ronaldo’s attacking output. In addition, they may rely on efficient counterattacks, taking advantage of the opponent’s high pressing. However, the key challenge will be the midfield, as Portugal excel in that area and neutralizing it would be crucial to force either a draw or a victory. Cristiano Ronaldo #7 of Portugal looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K match. Portugal confirmed lineup vs Uzbekistan Portugal arrive as clear favorite to defeat Uzbekistan, aiming to impose their attacking firepower. For this, head coach Roberto Martínez would maintain his reliance on Cristiano Ronaldo and Pedro Neto. However, he will opt for Joao Felix on the left wing, seeking to stretch the opposition’s defensive setup through the flanks. In addition, Rúben Dias will return to the defense after his physical issues. With this in mind, Portugal will lineup as follows: Diogo Costa; João Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Joao Neves; Pedro Neto, Bruno Fernandes, Joao Felix; Cristiano Ronaldo. Uzbekistan confirmed lineup vs Portugal Following their latest defeat, Uzbekistan face Portugal needing a victory or a draw to reach the knockout stages. To secure it, head coach Fabio Cannavaro may again repeat the five-man defensive line, looking to stop Cristiano Ronaldo’s scoring prowess. Moreover, they may still aim for offensive impact with two wing-backs, trying to find Eldor Shomurodov in the striker position. Considering this, Uzbekistan will play as follows: Abduvohid Nematov; Bekhruz Karimov, Abdukodir Khusanov, Rustam Ashurmatov, Abdulla Abdullaev, Sherzod Nasrullaev; Odiljon Xamrobekov, Azizjon Ganiev, Otabek Shukurov, Abbosbek Fayzullaev; Eldor Shomurodov.
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