FIFA World Cup 2026 : Portugal vs Croatia Live, Preview and Lineups

Team News

Portugal

Portugal have no new injury concerns following their draw against Colombia.

Roberto Martinez is expected to recall several regular starters after rotating his squad during the group stage.

Cristiano Ronaldo will continue to lead the attack after making history by becoming the first player to score in six consecutive FIFA World Cup editions. The veteran forward already has two goals in the tournament and remains Portugal's biggest attacking threat.

Joao Neves is expected to return to midfield alongside Vitinha, while Bruno Fernandes should operate behind Ronaldo in the attacking midfield role.

Defensively, Diogo Costa is likely to start behind a back four consisting of Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Renato Veiga and Nuno Mendes.

Croatia

Croatia also head into the match without fresh injury concerns.

Josko Gvardiol is expected to return to the starting lineup at left-back after being rested against Ghana, allowing Ivan Perisic to move into his preferred attacking role.

Luka Modric will once again orchestrate play alongside Mateo Kovacic in midfield, while Petar Sucic and Nikola Vlasic are both pushing for starting places after their impressive performances in the final group match.

Match Prediction

This promises to be a closely contested encounter between two technically gifted European sides. Croatia possess the experience and midfield quality to frustrate Portugal, but Martinez's squad arguably have greater attacking depth and defensive stability.

If Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha can control possession and Ronaldo receives quality service in the final third, Portugal should have enough quality to edge a tight contest.

Prediction: Portugal 2-1 Croatia