Portugal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Portugal qualified in emphatic fashion, topping their UEFA group and wrapping up qualification with two matches to spare. The 9-1 win over Armenia was the statement result — one of the most one-sided European qualifying victories of the cycle. Martínez has built a squad that performs consistently and carries genuine depth at every position.

The qualification campaign also confirmed the next generation is ready. João Neves became a regular starter. Pedro Neto established himself as a reliable international contributor. Francisco Conceição's move to Juventus was followed by a national team call-up that suggested Martínez sees him as part of the core group. Portugal have succession planning in place — and still have Ronaldo at the front.

The most striking feature of the squad is the four goalkeepers. Diogo Costa of Porto is the clear first choice, but the decision to name José Sá, Rui Silva and Ricardo Velho — rather than the standard three — reflects depth and contingency planning. Diogo Costa has been one of Europe's best keepers over the last two seasons.

Defensively, Dias and Inácio are the centre-back partnership with Veiga and Araújo in reserve. Cancelo at right back brings attacking quality — though his relationship with Martínez has been complicated by form — and Nuno Mendes at left back is arguably the best full-back in the tournament field. Matheus Nunes provides versatility as a hybrid midfielder-defender.

Midfield is Portugal's greatest strength: Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, João Neves — any combination of those four makes Portugal capable of dominating possession against any team in the world. Rúben Neves at Al Hilal adds experience, and Samú Costa of Mallorca is the depth option.

The attack combines generational talent and iconic history: Ronaldo, Leão, João Félix, Gonçalo Ramos, Pedro Neto, Conceição, Guedes and Trincão. Eight forwards for five or six spots — Martínez has selection dilemmas at every level, which is the hallmark of a very good squad.