Portugal

Few nations announced themselves on the World Cup stage quite like Portugal, whose Eusébio-inspired side reached the last four in their very first appearance back in the 1960s. After long spells in the wilderness, the Seleção became tournament regulars from the turn of the century onwards, with the Figo-led golden generation going deep in the mid-2000s and the Cristiano Ronaldo era delivering a European title and continental silverware. The one prize that has always slipped through their fingers, though, is the World Cup itself — and that unfinished business hangs over everything they do in 2026.

This summer's draw has handed Portugal Group K, a pool with a little bit of everything. Colombia bring South American rhythm and genuine pedigree, making the final group game a heavyweight occasion in its own right. Uzbekistan arrive as ambitious newcomers to this stage, while DR Congo return to the tournament generations after their only previous appearance under a different name — exactly the kind of unknown quantity that can unsettle a favourite.

Portugal's group campaign runs through two American cities: they open against DR Congo on 17 Jun 2026, 12:00 local at NRG Stadium, Houston, stay put to face Uzbekistan on 23 Jun 2026, 12:00 local at NRG Stadium, Houston, then head south to meet Colombia on 27 Jun 2026, 19:30 local at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami. Under the expanded 48-team format, the top two in Group K advance automatically and eight of the best third-placed sides also reach the Round of 32, so even a stumble along the way need not be fatal. For a squad of Portugal's depth, however, anything less than top spot — and the kinder knockout path it usually brings — would feel like an opportunity missed.

What makes this Portugal side so watchable is the blend: seasoned winners who have lifted major trophies alongside one of the deepest pools of young attacking talent in Europe. The Houston double-header offers a chance to build momentum before the Miami showdown with Colombia decides the group's pecking order. If the pieces click, this team has every tool needed for the deep summer run their history still owes them.