Portugal go into their second FIFA World Cup 2026 group match under pressure after a disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo. The European side will face tournament debutants Uzbekistan on Tuesday 7pm CAT, needing a win to improve their chances of reaching the knockout stage. The opening match showed that African teams can compete with some of the world's biggest football nations. DR Congo frustrated Portugal with a disciplined performance, limiting Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates to very few clear scoring chances despite Portugal enjoying most of the ball. ALSO READ: DR Congo earn historic World Cup point after 1-1 draw with Portugal Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez has admitted his side lost focus after a sluggish start in their opening match against DR Congo, but insists the players have learned from the setback and are fully focused ahead of their clash with Uzbekistan. We are strong and focused, Martínez said. It is normal to receive criticism after a disappointing result, but our attention is on improving and responding in the next game. Veteran forward Cristiano Ronaldo, featuring in his sixth FIFA World Cup at the age of 41, is expected to come under close scrutiny after a subdued performance in the opener. Martínez declined to reveal whether the Portuguese captain will start against Uzbekistan but described him as a key leader and role model within the squad. Uzbekistan also head into the match seeking their first points after a 3-1 defeat to Colombia in the nation's World Cup debut. Despite the loss, Abbosbek Fayzullaev made history by scoring Uzbekistan's first-ever World Cup goal, giving fans back home a moment to cherish. Head coach Fabio Cannavaro believes his players have nothing to fear against Portugal and has challenged them to show greater determination. Portugal will be looking to bounce back and reassert their credentials, while Uzbekistan will hope to spring another surprise and keep their World Cup dream alive.
