Portugal begin another Nations League campaign on Thursday night, with Wales arriving for a 20:45 kick-off carrying a far less convincing run of results into the opening group match.
The Portuguese, winners of the competition in 2019 and 2025, return to action after their World Cup ended in the round of 16, where Spain edged them 1-0. Cristiano Ronaldo remains at the centre of the squad, 23 years after his first international appearance.
Portugal’s record appearance holder has collected 233 caps and will now work under his sixth national-team coach. Jorge Jesus has taken charge after previously managing Ronaldo at Al-Nassr during the 2025-26 season.
Wales seek a response after difficult spell
Wales have not faced Portugal since the Euro 2016 semi-final, when Portugal won 2-0. Their current form offers little comfort before the trip.
They were eliminated from World Cup qualifying in a play-off semi-final against Bosnia, drawing 1-1 before losing 4-2 on penalties. Draws with Ghana and Northern Ireland followed, while Romania beat them in a friendly on 6 June.
Thursday’s match therefore gives Portugal the chance to make an immediate statement in the group, while Wales need to halt a sequence of disappointing results before it deepens.
