FIFA World Cup 2026: Portugal make one change for Colombia clash, must win to top group
Miami, June 28
Portugal made a single change to their starting XI for their final FIFA World Cup group-stage match against Colombia on Saturday, with Ruben Neves replacing Joao Neves.
Colombia enter the match on six points and needs only a draw to finish top of the group, while Portugal, on four points, must win to progress as group winners.
Coach Roberto Martinez opted for experience in midfield, bringing in Ruben Neves alongside the likes of Bruno Fernandes, who will operate as the main playmaker.
Veteran forward Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, continues to lead the attack in his sixth World Cup, with Joao Felix and Pedro Neto providing width.
Ronaldo also ties with Germany's Lothar Matthaus for the second-most in the competition's history (25).
For Colombia, Luis Diaz spearheads the attack, while Jhon Cordoba comes into the starting lineup. Daniel Munoz, who is Colombia's top scorer in the tournament with two goals, begins on the bench.
Colombia have secured a top-two finish in the group and will top the standings if they avoid defeat against Portugal. Portugal must win to finish first, while a draw will lock second place.
— ANI
Reader Comments
"Ruben Neves over Joao Neves? Martinez is playing it safe, but I think Portugal needs more creativity in midfield. Bruno Fernandes can't do everything alone. If Colombia parks the bus, Portugal might struggle. Ronaldo's experience will be key, but his pace has dropped—hope the young wingers step up. 🇵🇹"
"As someone who watches a lot of Premier League, I'm surprised Daniel Munoz is benched—he's been Colombia's best player so far. But Luis Diaz leading the attack is always dangerous. Portugal's defence better be ready for those quick counter-attacks. This is the World Cup, anything can happen! 🌍"
"Another match where the world moves on while we Indians can only watch from the sidelines. When will our football infrastructure improve enough to see India at a World Cup? Anyway, hoping for a Portugal win—Ronaldo deserves to go deep one more time. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳"
"I've been following football since the 90s. Ronaldo tying Matthaus' record is incredible, but let's not forget—records are meant to be broken. The real story here is Colombia's rise. They play with such passion and unity. Reminds me of how our Indian cricket team used to play in the 2000s. Koi Indian football fan hai yahan? 😄"
"Wait, Ronaldo is 41 and still starting? That's either genius or madness from Martinez. Portugal has good young talent like Joao Felix and Pedro Neto—they should
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