Roberto Martinez considers Portugal lineup changes after World Cup opening draw
Following a disappointing draw against DR Congo, Portugal coach Roberto Martinez is planning squad rotations for the upcoming match against Uzbekistan.
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Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez is considering significant changes to his lineup following a frustrating 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their World Cup group stage opener. The result left the team sitting in second place in Group K.
Defensively, Ruben Dias is expected to return after missing the first game, while Tomas Araujo is ruled out due to discomfort sustained during the match against Uzbekistan. Renato Veiga and Goncalo Inacio are competing to partner Dias in the center.
Martinez is also looking to manage the workload of key players like Nuno Mendes, Joao Cancelo, Vitinha, and Joao Neves, who all finished their club seasons late. Options such as Diogo Dalot, Ruben Neves, and Samu Costa are being considered for the starting eleven.
In attack, Bernardo Silva could be benched following a lackluster performance, with Francisco Trincao and Francisco Conceicao vying for his spot. While Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to start, Martinez is weighing the inclusion of Joao Felix alongside him.
The rotation strategy is also aimed at keeping the squad fresh for the decisive group stage encounter against Colombia on June 27.