Martínez draws line on Ronaldo as Veiga sets World Cup tone

Scaloni vs Martínez: who decides when Ronaldo plays?

Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni got visibly irritated when asked whether Lionel Messi decides when he plays – and Roberto Martínez didn't miss the chance to draw a contrast. "I respect all national teams and coaches, but we work differently," Martínez said, making it clear that in his Portugal setup, Cristiano Ronaldo doesn't call the shots. (1) It's a timely message as the World Cup approaches and the Ronaldo question lingers over every Portugal camp.

Veiga: 'We are contenders, not favourites'

Renato Veiga set the tone for Portugal's World Cup campaign on Monday, telling media that the squad sees itself as contenders rather than favourites. "We are contenders, not favourites. For now, we are just contenders," Veiga said, namechecking the quality around him – Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Nuno Mendes, João Neves, Vitinha, Gonçalo Ramos, Rafael Leão. (2) (6) He also spoke about wearing Eusébio's number 13 shirt, calling it "not a burden, but a privilege." (3)

Atletico lead race for Bernardo Silva

Barcelona have cooled their interest in Bernardo Silva following his Manchester City exit – and Atletico Madrid are now in pole position to land him. (5) Martínez has previously backed the move to Spain, but it's Diego Simeone's side, not Barça, that looks the most likely destination right now.

Portugal rise in FIFA power rankings

Portugal have climbed in the latest FIFA World Cup 2026 power rankings ahead of the tournament. The USMNT held steady before their opener against Paraguay, but your team is moving in the right direction. (8)

Nigeria friendly and women's team in action

Portugal wrap up their pre-World Cup preparations with a friendly against Nigeria in Leiria. (9) On Tuesday, the women's team face Finland in a decisive Nations League group match – a win puts them in position to secure promotion to League A. Francisco Neto is demanding a competitive performance across the full 90 minutes. (4)

Proença: 'It will be Portugal'

Former Portugal international Pedro Proença isn't holding back. Asked about the World Cup, his answer was simple: "It will be Portugal." (7) Confidence is building.

Fan reactions

The biggest talking point among Portugal fans on Reddit right now isn't the World Cup – it's Sérgio Conceição admitting he spoke with Benfica about the managerial job, though he says he'd find it very difficult to coach any Portuguese club other than FC Porto. Read the full thread here.