FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain stay unchanged, Portugal bring Joao Felix in attack
Dallas, July 7
Spain named an unchanged playing line-up, while Portugal brought in Joao Felix in the attack, replacing Rafael Leao for their FIFA World Cup round of 16 clash at Dallas on Monday.
The Portugal versus Spain clash in the round of 16 will witness a 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, a football institution in himself, go face-to-face with the next generation of Spanish football, of which Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, and Gavi are amongst some of the promising flag-bearers.
As per Reuters, the Spain manager Luis de la Fuente is persisting with the team that beat Austria 3-0 in the round of 32 clash, with Pedro Porro on the right back and Dani Olmo as their playmaker.
For Portugal, Joao is a starter alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Pedro Neto, with Leao on the bench.
Lineups:
Portugal: Diogo Costa; Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Joao Neves, Bruno Fernandes; Pedro Neto, Joao Felix, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Spain: Unai Simon; Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri, Dani Olmo; Lamine Yamal, Alex Baena; Mikel Oyarzabal.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone who follows European football closely, I'm surprised Spain didn't change their lineup. Portugal bringing in Joao Felix could be a game-changer though - he's got that flair when he's in form. This round of 16 match is going to be epic! 🏆
I'm from the US and I've been following the World Cup since 1994. This Spain vs Portugal matchup is a dream draw! Ronaldo vs the new Spanish generation - it's like watching history unfold. Loser goes home, winner gets Argentina or France? High stakes! 💯
Honestly, I think Portugal's manager is taking a risk by starting Joao Felix. He's been inconsistent at club level. Spain's Rodri and Pedri midfield is world-class - they'll control the game. India's football fans should study this Spanish possession style! 🇮🇳⚽
No matter which team wins, watching Ronaldo at 41 is a privilege. He's like an Indian cricket legend playing in his twilight years - you just appreciate the moments. Spain's Lamine Yamal at 17 is the future though! This match has everything. 🎉
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