Portugal vs Spain – Predicted lineup and team news
· Yahoo Sports
Portugal and Spain are set to clash in a Round of 16 encounter at Dallas Stadium on Monday, with both sides aiming to secure a place in the quarter-finals, where the winner will meet either the USA or Belgium.
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Portugal’s journey through the World Cup has been marked by resilience and a touch of inconsistency. They finished second in Group K, showing moments of solid determination mixed with flashes of attacking brilliance, most notably in their emphatic 5–0 win over Uzbekistan.
Their path to the Round of 16 was sealed in dramatic fashion with a 2–1 victory over Croatia in the Round of 32. Gonçalo Ramos emerged as the hero, scoring a decisive header deep into stoppage time to send his team through.
Portugal team news
Manager Roberto Martínez has the advantage of having all 26 players available, with no injuries or suspensions affecting selection.
There was some concern when Cristiano Ronaldo was forced off in the 81st minute against Croatia after sustaining a bloody knee injury.
However, the forward has since returned to full training and is fully fit to lead the attack in what he has confirmed will be the final World Cup of his career.
João Neves is expected to continue in midfield ahead of Rúben Neves, offering greater energy and movement in the centre of the pitch.
On the wings, Francisco Conceição is strongly challenging Pedro Neto for a starting role, potentially joining Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leão in supporting Ronaldo up front.
Portugal predicted lineup
Possible Portugal starting XI: Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Veiga, Mendes; Vitinha, Neves; Neto, Fernandes, Leao; Ronaldo
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 8pm BST on Monday, 6th July.
How to watch Portugal vs Spain?
UK fans can watch the Round of 16 match live on BBC One.
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