Preview: Portugal vs Uzbekistan | Latest news, line-ups, absences (23/06/2026)
Preview, team news, head-to-head, probable line ups and where to watch Portugal vs Uzbekistan at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
After a frustrating opening game, Portugal will look to get their first victory at this World Cup on Tuesday at 18:00 BST against Uzbekistan at NRG Stadium (Houston Stadium) in a match that pits fifth in the world against 50th. After drawing against DR Congo, Portugal know that Colombia have the advantage in the race to top the group.
Uzbekistan gave a decent account of themselves in their 3-1 loss against Colombia and the two-goal margin somewhat flattered the South Americans, but Portugal will be an even bigger challenge. The pressure is all on the Iberian side, however, as Roberto Martínez’s men know that another slip-up could be very costly.
Those looking ahead to the latter stages and considering the possible routes to the knockout phase will already be keeping a close eye on the latest World Cup group permutations, with Portugal widely expected to remain among the favourites to progress despite their disappointing start. A victory here would put Martínez’s side back on course before their final group-stage showdown against Colombia.
Latest news: absences, form, team news
After a lacklustre 1-1 draw with DR Congo where Portugal created only 0.65 xG, compared to the opposition’s 0.87, Martínez may be considering some changes to his team. He has attacking talent such as João Félix and Francisco Trincão who didn’t even get off the bench in the opening game, while many thought Rafael Leão would be given more than 20 minutes to make an impact on the match.
There has also been some debate in Portugal about the balance of the side. While the squad boasts an abundance of individual quality, the performance against DR Congo highlighted familiar issues regarding chance creation and attacking cohesion. Martínez has repeatedly spoken about the importance of patience, but supporters will expect a much more convincing display against lower-ranked opposition.
Uzbekistan are likely to take a similar approach to the Colombia game, but will know they need to be more disciplined at the back. Despite the defeat, there were encouraging moments in possession and they managed to create several promising situations on the break. Fabio Cannavaro‘s side showed they are capable of competing physically and tactically with stronger nations, even if they ultimately lacked the quality to punish Colombia consistently.
Portugal
Martínez has no fresh injury concerns after the DR Congo draw, but Rúben Dias remains a doubt and he might not be risked, with a view to playing in the Colombia game and then the knockout stages should Portugal get there.
The Portugal coach is under increasing pressure to find his best attacking formula. Questions remain over whether Leão should start from the left and whether Bruno Fernandes would benefit from having more freedom behind Cristiano Ronaldo. João Neves and Vitinha are expected to continue in midfield, although Trincão’s excellent club form means he could be rewarded with a place in the starting XI.
Uzbekistan
Centre-back Rustam Ashurmatov picked up a calf injury against Colombia and is being assessed day-to-day with the hope of making a return.
Uzbekistan will once again rely heavily on discipline and organisation. Cannavaro’s men spent long periods defending deep against Colombia and may have to do the same here, but the experience gained from their opening game should stand them in good stead. A point would represent one of the biggest results in the country’s footballing history.
Teams H2H: head-to-head stats
Portugal and Uzbekistan have never previously met in a senior international match. This World Cup group-stage encounter will therefore be the first meeting between the two nations.
Although there is no previous history between the teams, Portugal’s record against Asian opposition at the World Cup is generally positive. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, are making their tournament debut and continue to break new ground with every appearance.
Predicted line-ups
Portugal will make changes, but one of their biggest issues is that Martínez still hasn’t found the way to get the best out of his squad’s very talented parts.
Much may depend on whether Martínez prioritises continuity or decides to freshen things up after a disappointing opening performance. With Colombia likely to represent the toughest challenge in the group, the Portugal manager must strike a balance between securing three points and preserving energy for the final round of fixtures.
Tactical analysis: can Portugal find their flow?
For Portugal, the challenge is finding a way to create chances without everything being too heavily focused on Ronaldo. Starting Leão may allow them to be more vertical, as his running power and ability to beat his man could move the team up the pitch quicker and free up space for others.
Bruno Fernandes will also be expected to operate between the lines and provide the creativity Portugal lacked against DR Congo. The Manchester United captain was unable to influence the opening game as much as he would have liked and will be determined to dictate proceedings here.
For Fabio Cannavaro’s side, organisation will be key once again. They have seen Portugal struggle against a low-block, counter-attacking team and will look to replicate the success DR Congo had.
Uzbekistan will not be afraid to concede possession and wait for opportunities to counter. Their pace in transition caused Colombia some uncomfortable moments and they know frustration could become Portugal’s biggest enemy if the favourites fail to make an early breakthrough.
Key players to watch
The key players to watch in this one will be Bruno Fernandes and Eldor Shomurodov.
Bruno Fernandes (Portugal)
After a low-key game against DR Congo, while Portugal looked to their wingers to make things happen, Bruno Fernandes will have to take more responsibility and pull the strings from the No.10 position if Portugal are to be more creative on Tuesday.
The playmaker remains one of the team’s most important players and his ability to unlock stubborn defences could prove decisive. Fernandes often thrives in matches where Portugal dominate possession and his set-piece delivery could also become an important weapon.
Eldor Shomurodov (Uzbekistan)
The captain remains Uzbekistan’s most recognisable attacking figure. His movement, work rate and experience could prove crucial if the Central Asian side are to claim a historic result against one of Europe’s traditional powers.
Shomurodov may not see many chances, but he remains dangerous whenever space opens up. His ability to stretch defences and hold the ball up could provide Uzbekistan with valuable breathing space if they come under sustained pressure.
Where to watch Portugal vs Uzbekistan in the UK and Ireland
Portugal vs Uzbekistan kicks off at 18:00 BST on Tuesday, June 23 at NRG Stadium (Houston Stadium).
Viewers in the United Kingdom can watch this game on ITV1 and ITVX.
In the Republic of Ireland, the game will be televised on RTÉ2 and available to stream on RTÉ Player.
Market insights and probability predictions
Portugal are the overwhelming favourites for this game, rated as having a 76.2% chance of winning, with the draw at 15.7% and Uzbekistan at 8.1%.
Those looking at the latest World Cup odds will see that the markets still expect Portugal to recover from their slow start and challenge for top spot in the group. Another disappointing result, however, would dramatically alter the picture heading into the final round of fixtures.
Ronaldo will be itching to get on the scoresheet and he’s considered to have a 50.3% chance of scoring anytime, so that could be combined with a Portugal win or a correct-score bet. Bruno Fernandes to register an assist may also appeal, given how much responsibility he is expected to shoulder creatively.
Portugal were underwhelming against DR Congo, but they possess too much quality to deliver two poor performances in succession. Uzbekistan are organised and disciplined, yet they may struggle to contain Portugal for the full 90 minutes if Martínez’s side move the ball with greater urgency.
