Portugal will be expected to take a major step towards the 2026 World Cup knockout stages when they face an Uzbekistan side chasing another famous result on Tuesday at 6pm (UK time).
Portugal were frustrated in their opening match, held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo despite dominating large periods of the game. Roberto Martinez’s side controlled possession and territory throughout, but were punished for failing to convert their superiority into more goals. Nevertheless, the Europeans remain well placed in Group K and victory here would put them firmly in control heading into the final round of fixtures.
Uzbekistan, meanwhile, were beaten 3-1 by Colombia in their opening match. Timur Kapadze’s side caused problems going forward and showed flashes of the organisation that helped them qualify for the tournament, but they were ultimately punished by Colombia’s superior quality in the final third. Another difficult test awaits here, however, Uzbekistan will still believe they can make life uncomfortable for Portugal if they remain disciplined defensively and take their chances on the counter-attack.
These sides have never previously met.
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Portugal vs Uzbekistan team news
Portugal team news
Roberto Martinez is unlikely to make sweeping changes despite Portugal’s disappointing draw against DR Congo. Diogo Costa should retain his place in goal behind a familiar back four, with Ruben Dias back to full on-field training and expected to partner Tomas Araujo at centre-back. Joao Cancelo and Nuno Mendes will continue to provide width from full-back positions, particularly against a Uzbekistan side expected to defend deep for long periods.
The midfield is likely to remain unchanged, with Joao Neves and Vitinha marshalling the defence, with Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, and Pedro Neto ahead of them. Cristiano Ronaldo remains the focal point in attack despite questions around his effectiveness.
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Uzbekistan team news
Uzbekistan are expected to stick with a largely unchanged XI despite their 3-1 defeat to Colombia in the opening match. Utkir Yusupov should continue in goal, with Abdukodir Khusanov and Rustam Ashurmatov likely to remain the central defensive pairing.
In midfield, Odiljon Hamrobekov and Otabek Shukurov are set to keep their places, with Abbosbek Fayzullaev still the main creative outlet. Eldor Shomurodov will again lead the line as Uzbekistan look to be more efficient in transition after a difficult second half against Colombia.
Portugal vs Uzbekistan predicted lineups
Portugal (4-3-3): Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Araujo, Mendes; Fernandes, Neves, Vitinha; Bernardo Silva, Ronaldo, Neto.
Uzbekistan (4-3-3): Yusupov; Sayfiev, Ashurmatov, Khusanov, Alikulov; Hamrobekov, Shukurov, Fayzullaev; Masharipov, Shomurodov, Urunov.
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