On Wednesday, Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus held a controversial press conference during which he revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo would not feature against Denmark on Thursday.

His comments had an immediate impact on the captain, as hours later, Cristiano Ronaldo decided to leave the national team in the middle of the international window following differences with the manager.

Will Cristiano Ronaldo return to the Portugal National Team?

After reports confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo had departed the Portugal squad, speculation intensified regarding his potential retirement from international soccer.

According to reports, Ronaldo is weighing the decision not to return to the national team following friction with Jorge Jesus and members of the country’s soccer federation.

If this decision is finalized, it would mean Cristiano Ronaldo’s final appearance for Portugal came against Wales on Matchday 1 of the 2026–27 UEFA Nations League—a match that ended in a 2–1 victory for A Seleção.

Ronaldo announced his exit in an Instagram post, saying that following Jesus’ press conference and a conversation with Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença, he had decided to leave the camp, adding that he would “in due course” tell the Portuguese people the truth behind his departure.

The tension traces back to the win over Norway, when Ronaldo reportedly expected to start before Jesus turned to Gonçalo Ramos instead, who repaid the decision with the winning goal.

Ronaldo did not train with the group afterward, working apart in the gym before confirming he had left camp entirely, while Jesus has denied any real conflict, insisting he remains the one who makes the decisions.

With Ronaldo out of the squad picture for Denmark, Jesus is expected to stick largely with the group that beat Norway, while Rafael Leão looks set to inherit the captain’s number 7 shirt in his absence.

Probable lineup for Denmark

Brian Riemer is expected to lean on home advantage with a settled back line and the experience of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg in midfield, while the Höjlund-Isaksen pairing looks to punish a Portugal side still adjusting to the fallout from Ronaldo’s exit.

Denmark probable starting XI: Filip Jörgensen; Rasmus Kristensen, Joachim Andersen, Oliver Provstgaard, Patrick Dorgu; Morten Hjulmand, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Mikkel Damsgaard; Gustav Isaksen, Rasmus Höjlund, Mohammed Daramy.

Probable lineup for Portugal

Jesus is projected to keep Diogo Costa in goal behind a back four of Nuno Mendes, Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga and João Cancelo, with João Neves and João Palhinha holding midfield and Gonçalo Ramos leading the line again after his winner against Norway.

Portugal probable starting XI: Diogo Costa; Nuno Mendes, Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga, João Cancelo; João Neves, João Palhinha; Francisco Conceição, João Félix, Pedro Neto; Gonçalo Ramos.

Messi is scheduled to return to Argentina after the national team’s first two friendlies of the international window. With Bolivia and Burkina Faso coming before his farewell against Benin, Scaloni initially appeared to have a clear plan for when his captain would rejoin the squad.

Argentina’s first two matches will offer Scaloni an early look at the team without the player who has been its defining figure for more than a decade. The national team outclassed Bolivia 4-0 on Wednesday evening before meeting Burkina Faso, with the 39-year-old superstar initially expected to remain away from the squad during those fixtures. The transition is significant because Messi leaves behind an extraordinary international record.

He finishes his Argentina career as the country’s all-time leading scorer with 125 goals and the most-capped player, with 207 appearances before his farewell match. Scaloni knows replacing that production and influence cannot be solved by simply inserting another player into Messi’s position.

Instead, the coach is preparing to experiment with different combinations and allow a younger generation to begin taking greater responsibility. “We’ll find a way to play differently,” Scaloni said before the Bolivia clash. “That’s what these matches are for — to experiment. That said, our core style still revolves around controlling the ball. From there, we’ll see how we adapt.

Scaloni reveals the unexpected possibility

Messi’s farewell schedule appeared straightforward until Scaloni was asked when the superstar would join the squad. The coach explained that the plan was for Messi to arrive on Sunday, after Argentina’s match against Burkina Faso, but then revealed that the schedule could change if Messi wanted to return earlier. “For sure, Messi is expected to join the camp on Sunday after the game against Burkina Faso,” he said. “If he wants to play on October 3 too, no problem.”

That means Messi could potentially make a surprise appearance against Burkina Faso on October 3, giving him the chance to play two matches during his final international window rather than only the farewell against Benin. Scaloni’s comments make clear that the decision would ultimately be Messi’s, with the coach happy to accommodate him if he chooses to arrive earlier.

The timing also makes the possibility realistic from a club perspective. Messi’s final Inter Miami appearance before the international window came on September 27, while his next scheduled club match is not until October 10, leaving a potential opening for him to feature for Argentina before the Benin farewell.

Messi’s final farewell remains against Benin

Even if Messi chooses to play against Burkina Faso, the emotional centerpiece of the international window will remain his farewell against Benin. The match is scheduled for October 6 at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, where Messi will make his final appearance for Argentina.

The farewell will bring an extraordinary international career to a close. Messi has won two Copa America titles and the 2022 World Cup with Argentina, finally ending years of frustration over his international legacy. His final World Cup also provided another reminder of his importance. Messi scored eight goals in eight matches during the tournament, while his overall World Cup record stands at 21 goals.

“What Leo has done is impressive, and we saw it up close. Just like Diego left, now it’s Leo’s moment. We have to pass on the message he left us to the kids coming through,” Martinez told TyC Sports following the win.

He continued reflecting on what Messi’s departure means for the squad. “These are feelings that are hard to explain. He guided us for a long time, he’s left a huge legacy in this country, in the world of football. Leo is irreplaceable. We’ll try to help the ones who are just starting out,” Martinez said.

Speaking separately with Telefe, Martinez acknowledged the challenge ahead for Argentina without its captain. “A change is coming, a process. Each of us has to take on the responsibility. I don’t think there will ever be another one like him, because he’s unique, because he was and will be the best player of all time,” he said.

Cristian Romero on what Messi has meant to him

Cristian “Cuti” Romero, now Argentina’s captain following Messi’s exit, also reflected on the farewell, drawing on a close relationship built over years sharing the national team together.

“I was able to share a lot with him, he’s a great person. He has a humility that very few players have, and considering everything he’s won, that’s what makes him stand out. He’s always been an incredible person to me,” Romero said.

The Atletico Madrid defender went further, describing Messi as someone who helped shape his own path with Argentina. “He helped me a lot to adapt. He’s always helped the younger guys settle in the best way, and I built a relationship with him from there. He’s been my idol since I was very young, I watched him suffer with the national team, saw him win everything at the club level, and then got to share so many things with him. He’s truly the greatest of all time,” the defender concluded.

Romero’s words carry extra weight now that he’s the one tasked with leading Argentina into its next chapter. It figures to be a rebuilding stretch for the national team, one that got off to a strong start with a 4-0 rout of Bolivia, with Romero himself getting on the scoresheet alongside goals from Lautaro Martinez, Nico Paz and Jose Manuel Lopez.

Argentina is beginning its first international window without Messi available for its opening matches against Bolivia and Burkina Faso. Rather than rushing into a decision that could define the start of a new era, Scaloni has chosen to give himself and the team more time.

The biggest challenge facing Argentina is replacing the influence Messi had both with the ball and within the dressing room. Scaloni knows there will be no direct replacement for a player who finished his international career as the country’s record goalscorer, so he plans to use the upcoming matches to experiment. “We’ll find a way to play differently,” the coach said.

“That’s what these matches are for — to experiment. That said, our core style still revolves around controlling the ball. From there, we’ll see how we adapt.” That approach was already visible in the victory against Bolivia, with Scaloni starting Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez together in attack. Nicolas Paz also assumed the creative responsibilities that would previously have fallen heavily on Messi.

The decision over Messi’s iconic No. 10

The most symbolic part of Argentina’s transition, however, concerns the shirt Messi wore throughout his remarkable international career. Scaloni has confirmed that Argentina will leave the No. 10 shirt unassigned until after Messi’s farewell match against Benin on October 6.

“We aren’t obligated to assign it for these matches, so we won’t give it to anyone until Leo’s farewell game,” Scaloni told ESPN. “The idea is for someone to eventually take it on, given how special it is to wear. We just haven’t decided who yet.“

The decision means no player would wear Argentina’s famous No. 10 in the matches against Bolivia, and it will also remain unused against Burkina Faso. Messi will then return for his final appearance at the Estadio Monumental, giving the number one last moment of association with its legendary owner before a successor is chosen.

Who could eventually inherit the shirt?

There is already speculation over several possible candidates, although Scaloni has made clear that no final decision has been reached. Nicolas Paz and Franco Mastantuono have been mentioned among the leading possibilities, while Julian Alvarez, Thiago Almada and Alexis Mac Allister also represent potential options.

The shirt carries an extraordinary history, having previously been worn by Diego Maradona and Mario Kempes, before becoming inseparable from Messi during the most successful period in Argentina’s modern history. Scaloni therefore appears determined to avoid simply handing it to a player for the sake of filling a squad number.

Messi’s departure makes the decision even more significant because of what he achieved while wearing it. He leaves Argentina as the country’s all-time leading scorer with 125 goals, including 21 at the World Cup, after appearing at six World Cups and scoring eight goals in his final tournament.

The 39-year-old superstar announced his international retirement following La Albiceleste’s World Cup final defeat to Spain in July, bringing an extraordinary chapter to a close. His final appearance will come against Benin on October 6, when he is expected to make his 208th senior appearance for Argentina. Until then, the No. 10 will remain untouched, creating a clear dividing line between Messi’s era and whatever comes next.

Ronaldo has worn the number for Portugal since 2008, turning it into one of the most recognizable shirt numbers in international soccer. Now, with the 41-year-old absent, the Selecao has been forced to make an unusual adjustment ahead of its meeting with Denmark.

The change is directly connected to UEFA’s squad-number regulations. For Nations League matches, the national team must submit a squad with consecutive shirt numbers from 1 to 23, meaning an empty No. 7 cannot simply remain untouched when Ronaldo is no longer part of the matchday squad.

That rule has previously forced Portugal to hand Ronaldo’s number to another player when he was injured, suspended or rested. Goncalo Guedes, Carlos Forbs and Bruma are among the players who have worn No. 7 during Ronaldo’s previous absences.

The latest change comes under very different circumstances, however. The 41-year-old superstar left the Selecao’s training camp after the controversy surrounding his unused substitute appearance in the 2-1 win over Norway, with the forward later saying he would explain the reasons behind his departure at a later date.

Who will get Ronaldo’s iconic shirt?

The player stepping into the famous number is Rafael Leao, who normally wears No. 17 for Portugal. The Portuguese winger, who plays for Galatasaray, has now been assigned No. 7, while Fabio Silva takes over No. 17 to keep Portugal’s squad numbering sequence intact, as confirmed by Portuguese national public service RTP.

For Leao, the change represents a major symbolic moment given the history attached to the number. Ronaldo transformed No. 7 into part of his identity with Portugal, making the sight of another player wearing it particularly striking as the national team prepares for life without its record goalscorer.

Leao has made 50 appearances for Portugal and scored six goals since making his senior debut in 2021. He has also represented the national team at two World Cups and Euro 2024, but wearing No. 7 against Denmark will inevitably invite comparisons with the player who made the shirt globally synonymous with Portugal.

There is a catch to the No. 7 switch

The biggest detail surrounding the change is that Leao’s new No. 7 assignment is for the Denmark match, rather than confirmation that Ronaldo has permanently lost the number.

RTP reports that Leao moves from No. 17 to No. 7 for the fixture, while Fabio Silva takes his old number. At the same time, UEFA‘s official database temporarily lists both Ronaldo and Leao as No. 7, highlighting that the change is linked to the current matchday squad rather than necessarily representing a permanent reassignment.

That distinction is important because Ronaldo’s long-term international future remains unresolved. The 41-year-old has left the camp, and reports have raised questions over whether he could retire from Portugal, but Ronaldo himself has not officially announced the end of his international career.

Ronaldo’s Portugal future remains uncertain

Ronaldo’s departure followed a turbulent few days under Jesus. The forward was left on the bench throughout Portugal’s victory over Norway despite warming up for an extended period, and he subsequently missed team training before leaving the camp.

Jesus had previously explained that his decisions were based on what he believed was best for the team, while Ronaldo later announced that he would reveal his reasons for leaving in the future. The situation has therefore left Portugal facing Denmark without its captain and all-time leading scorer.

The forward left Portugal’s camp after being told he would remain on the bench for the Nations League meeting with Denmark. Ronaldo later said he would reveal the reasons behind his decision “in due time,” leaving supporters waiting for answers while his club return quietly moved closer. The veteran’s international break had already taken an unexpected turn before his departure.

He started the 1-0 win over Wales, taking seven shots before being substituted in the 67th minute, but he then remained an unused substitute during the 2-1 victory over Norway. The decision ended an extraordinary streak for Ronaldo, who had not been left on the bench without playing in a competitive Portugal match for roughly 18 years. The forward was visibly frustrated after the Norway match and subsequently missed team training before eventually leaving the squad altogether.

Jesus repeatedly insisted that there was no major personal dispute between himself and Ronaldo, while making it clear that his authority as coach would not be compromised. “No player will ever change my mind. Not him, not anyone in football. No president either. Never, zero,” the coach said.

Ronaldo’s own explanation was considerably more restrained. “Following the national team coach’s news conference, and after a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I decided to leave the national team’s training camp,” he wrote on social media, adding that he would eventually explain “the truth about the reasons” behind his departure.

Ronaldo now knows when he will return

With the Portugal drama temporarily behind him, Ronaldo’s next appearance will be in Saudi Arabia. Al-Nassr will host Al-Diriyah on Friday, October 9, 2026, at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh, with kickoff scheduled for 9:00 PM local time.

The match will be Ronaldo’s first competitive outing since the Portugal controversy and gives him an immediate opportunity to shift the focus back toward his club career. The Saudi Pro League fixture is scheduled as Matchday 8, with Al-Nassr looking to continue its strong domestic campaign.

The two clubs have already met once this season, with Al-Nassr winning 4-1 in the King’s Cup on August 18. Ronaldo will now have the chance to face Al-Diriyah again, this time with league points at stake.

The Portugal situation could follow Ronaldo back to Saudi Arabia

Al-Nassr enters the fixture with 16 points from seven league matches, having recorded five wins, one draw and one defeat. The club has scored 16 goals and conceded seven, leaving it among the teams competing near the top of the Saudi Pro League.

Ronaldo has also continued his pursuit of one of the most extraordinary individual milestones in soccer. His goal against Abha in September took his career tally to 979 goals, leaving him 21 goals short of 1,000.

Despite Ronaldo’s return to club action, disciplinary action may still be in store. ESPN and A Bola reported that Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) regulations state that an unauthorized departure from national-team activities can result in a suspension of one to six months, along with a potential €500 to €1,000 ($566 to $1,130) fine for a professional player.

Ronaldo left Portugal’s camp on Wednesday, after speaking with FPF president Pedro Proenca and following Jesus’ press conference ahead of the Nations League meeting with Denmark. The 41-year-old then addressed the situation himself, promising Portuguese supporters that he would eventually explain exactly why he decided to leave.

The situation had been building since Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway, when Ronaldo remained an unused substitute despite warming up during the match. He had started the opening Nations League fixture against Wales, but Jesus ultimately chose not to use him in Oslo, with the decision reportedly leaving the captain frustrated.

Jesus subsequently insisted that there was no major personal dispute and maintained that Ronaldo had not refused to train. The coach also made clear that his decisions would be based on what he believed Portugal needed, regardless of the player’s status. “Ronaldo didn’t refuse to train. That was impossible. He’s going to train today,” Jesus said.

The coach then refused to guarantee Ronaldo any role against Denmark, explaining that Goncalo Ramos was expected to start and that Ronaldo’s involvement would depend on the match. “If I need him, he’ll come on, if I don’t need him, he won’t,” the coach added.

What did Ronaldo say about his departure?

Ronaldo’s departure came shortly after those comments, with the Portugal captain confirming on social media that he had decided to leave the camp following his conversation with Proenca. His statement suggested that there was considerably more to the episode than had been publicly explained.

“In due time, I will tell all the Portuguese the truth about the reasons that motivated me to leave,” Ronaldo wrote, while wishing Portugal and his teammates good luck.  The FPF confirmed Ronaldo had left the camp and said preparations would continue with the remaining squad. That confirmation made the situation official, although it did not explain whether the federation intended to take any disciplinary action.

The FPF rule that could create major problem

That question became particularly important because Article 160 of the FPF Disciplinary Regulations contains specific provisions concerning players who leave or fail to attend national-team activities without justification. According to the regulation cited by Portuguese media, such a situation can carry a significant sporting sanction.

The rule states that a player who has been properly called up and “unjustifiably abandons or fails to appear for training, a match, or any activity of the national teams” can receive a suspension of one to six months and, if the player is a professional, a fine of five to 10 accounting units. That would reportedly translate into a financial penalty of approximately €500 to €1,000 ($566 to $1,130), based on the value of the accounting unit cited by A Bola.

The same provision also states that an absence or abandonment can result in an automatic preventive suspension, although the eventual disciplinary outcome would depend on the circumstances and the federation’s process. “Absence or abandonment results in the automatic preventive suspension of the player under the terms set out in these regulations,” the regulation states.

Is this really the end of Ronaldo’s Portugal career?

The disciplinary issue comes at a particularly dramatic moment because reports have claimed Ronaldo has made an irreversible decision to retire from international soccer. O Jogo reported that the Wales match could therefore prove to be his final appearance for Portugal, although Ronaldo himself has not publicly confirmed that he has permanently retired.

The uncertainty is especially striking given the scale of his international legacy. Ronaldo has made 234 appearances and scored 146 goals for the Selecao, while helping the national team win Euro 2016 and the 2019 and 2025 Nations League titles.

Ronaldo announced his departure on September 30, 2026, shortly after Jesus addressed the situation in his pre-match press conference ahead of Denmark. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner made clear that he intends to explain his reasons eventually, but for now he has walked away from a squad sitting top of its Nations League group.

Tension began after the Selecao’s 2-1 win over Norway, when Ronaldo remained on the bench despite warming up for a lengthy period. Jesus had previously indicated the captain could feature, but ultimately decided not to bring him in, leaving Ronaldo visibly frustrated after the final whistle.

The experienced manager insisted that the situation had been exaggerated and denied any serious disagreement with his captain. He explained that Ronaldo had been unhappy about warming up without playing, but argued that such frustration was understandable rather than evidence of a deeper conflict. “There was no incident whatsoever,” he said.

“Any player – and I was a player myself – when you spend 20 or 30 minutes warming up and then don’t get on, no-one is happy about that.” The coach also insisted that Ronaldo had not refused to train, explaining that his individual work had been related to mobility and strengthening. Jesus expected the forward to return to normal team training before the Denmark match.

Ronaldo announces his departure

The situation escalated shortly afterward when Ronaldo did not join his teammates for the scheduled training session in Copenhagen. Portuguese media reported that he left Parken Stadium in a federation vehicle, before the Portugal captain announced on social meida that he had decided to leave the camp.

“After the press conference of the national team and following a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the national team training camp,” Ronaldo wrote.

He then promised to reveal more about the circumstances behind his decision while making clear that he still wished Portugal and his teammates well. “In time, I will tell all the Portuguese the truth about the reasons that motivated me to leave,” the 41-year-old added.

Jesus and Proenca make one final desperate attempt

The departure did not immediately end the efforts to keep Ronaldo with the squad. According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Jorge Jesus and FPF president Pedro Proenca followed Ronaldo to the airport in Copenhagen in an attempt to persuade him to remain in Denmark with the rest of the national team.

Their reported intervention shows how seriously the situation had escalated behind the scenes. Despite the effort, the veteran forward reportedly refused to stay, boarded his flight and left Copenhagen, with the episode now raising much bigger questions about his relationship with the national team.

The FPF subsequently confirmed Ronaldo’s departure and said the remaining 24 players would continue preparations for the upcoming fixtures. “The entire delegation remains totally focused on the national team’s next fixtures and on achieving the established objectives,” the federation said.

Following the 2026 World Cup final, Lionel Messi revealed his decision to retire from the Argentina national team. While a formal farewell match has been arranged, it will not take place against Bolivia.

Argentina are scheduled to face Bolivia, Burkina Faso, and Benin during this international window. However, Messi will feature exclusively in the final fixture, making his official farewell appearance at the Estadio Monumental on October 6.

Argentina respected Lionel Messi’s decision

Many supporters wondered why Messi opted to play solely against Benin. According to reports, the captain requested time to rest following his recent commitments with Inter Miami, choosing to avoid risking injury in the window’s opening two games so he could enter his final international match in peak condition.

The stage for Messi’s international retirement promises to be spectacular. The captain will take the pitch in front of 85,000 Argentine supporters at the Monumental, aiming to cap his legendary international career with a victory over the 93rd-ranked team in the FIFA standings.

Argentina will also debut a special commemorative kit for Messi’s farewell match. All eyes will be on Buenos Aires for “The Last Tango” as global soccer prepares to bid farewell to an icon, bringing an end to an unprecedented era in international sports.

During Wednesday’s press conference, Jorge Jesus addressed his decision to leave Ronaldo on the bench for the entire match against Norway, while also confirming that the veteran forward would not feature in the upcoming clash against Denmark—comments that had an immediate impact on team dynamics.

Minutes after the press conference concluded, reports surfaced that Ronaldo had departed the team’s training base. The captain later confirmed his departure via a statement on social media, leading many analysts and supporters to speculate that this could mark the first step toward his eventual retirement from international soccer.

“Following the national team coach’s press conference, and after a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I decided to leave the national team camp,” Cristiano shared on Instagram. “In due course, I will tell the Portuguese people the truth about the reasons behind my departure from the national team, to which I have always been dedicated. Now is the time to wish good luck to Portugal and to all my teammates, without exception.”

A swift turn of events in Portugal

When Portugal appointed Jorge Jesus as head coach, many believed the move would benefit Cristiano Ronaldo due to their shared history at Al Nassr. However, the relationship has taken an entirely different turn.

After benching Ronaldo against Norway and leaving him as an unused substitute, Jesus faced inevitable questions regarding his decision. Rather than backing down, the manager defended his tactical choices and doubled down, confirming that CR7 would not feature against Denmark on Thursday.

The manager’s words had an immediate impact on Ronaldo, who boarded a private jet back to Madrid and is expected to rejoin Al Nassr earlier than scheduled. As noted in his statement, the captain is set to clarify the reasons behind his sudden departure soon—and potentially reveal whether he will ever return to the Portuguese national team or retire from international duty for good.

Ronaldo had started Portugal’s opening Nations League match against Wales, but Jesus selected Goncalo Ramos to lead the attack in Oslo. Ramos scored the decisive goal, while Ronaldo warmed up during the game but was not introduced. The unusual decision quickly became the subject of intense discussion.

Reports suggested Ronaldo had expected to receive playing time, while his absence from some team training sessions and a meeting involving the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) president Pedro Proenca added to speculation that tensions had developed behind the scenes. Jesus has now rejected that interpretation and revealed that Ronaldo’s absence had been planned before the Norway match.

According to the Portugal manager, he had already agreed with Ronaldo that the forward would sit out both the Norway and Denmark fixtures as part of a wider workload-management plan. “I told Cris that he would not play the games against Norway and Denmark. He would not play because I believed that was the right thing to do,” Jesus said on Wednesday.

The manager pointed to their previous year together at Al-Nassr as the reason he felt confident making that decision. Jesus said he already understood Ronaldo’s physical condition and recovery habits from their time together in Saudi Arabia, particularly during periods when Al-Nassr had matches every few days. “I worked with Cris for a year, and I know his physical condition completely. I know because I already did this with him in Saudi Arabia. When there were games every three days, Cris rarely played.

Jesus reveals what changed his plans

There was, however, an important distinction to the original agreement. Jesus said the plan did not mean Ronaldo could never be used if the match required him, and he initially considered bringing him onto the pitch during the second half against Norway.

Ronaldo warmed up, but Gonçalo Ramos was performing well, and the match began demanding different tactical decisions. Portugal eventually secured the victory without making use of its captain, leaving Ronaldo as an unused substitute. “The game tells me what I am going to do. I thought that perhaps I had agreed with him that he would not play the first two games. But perhaps I would need him in the final minutes. However, the game dictated other things.”

That explanation provides a different context to the decision. Jesus was not describing a last-minute exclusion of Ronaldo, but a pre-match workload plan that still left him free to react according to how the game developed.

Did Ronaldo refuse to train?

Jesus also directly addressed reports that Ronaldo had refused to train with Portugal. The manager strongly denied that claim, explaining that the forward’s recovery routine after matches was already familiar to him from their time at Al-Nassr. “Cris never misses training, not on the first day or the second day after a game. Never. He spent a year with me and never did that.”

Jesus said Ronaldo instead followed the recovery work that had already been established for him, including gym, mobility and strengthening exercises. He also insisted that there is no personal conflict between himself and the Portugal captain, despite the speculation that followed the Norway match. “There is no issue at all! I have had issues with players before, but don’t turn this into an issue that does not exist. This was a coaching decision. I had a plan.”

Portugal had opened the 2026-27 Nations League campaign with a 1-0 victory over Wales, with Ronaldo starting before being substituted. Four days later in Oslo, Jesus selected Gonçalo Ramos to lead the attack, and the forward justified that decision by scoring the decisive goal.

Ronaldo did warm up during the match, but he was ultimately never introduced. After the final whistle, he went straight down the tunnel rather than joining his teammates in acknowledging the travelling supporters, adding another layer to an already unusual evening. Reports had suggested that Ronaldo was expected to receive roughly 30 minutes against Norway.

Jesus later explained that such a possibility had been discussed, but the way the match developed changed his thinking. “The game told me other things,” he said. Ramos was playing well and had given the Selecao das Quinas the attacking presence Jesus wanted, meaning the manager decided against making the planned change.

The decision became more significant because Ronaldo had spent much of his career being one of the first names on Portugal‘s team sheet. The situation also sparked speculation over a possible disagreement between the pair. Ronaldo’s subsequent training schedule added fuel to those reports, although Jesus repeatedly insisted that there was no underlying dispute.

Jesus explains what happened behind the scenes

Jesus said Ronaldo’s recovery routine was also being managed according to the experience they gained together at Al-Nassr. The coach explained that the forward does not usually complete full training immediately after matches and had instead carried out gym and mobility work. “There is no case whatsoever,” Jesus said at his pre-Denmark press conference.

The Portugal manager was then asked more directly about his authority when dealing with a player of Ronaldo’s stature. His response provided the clearest indication yet of the principle that will govern the forward’s role under his new manager.

What matters more than Ronaldo’s legendary status

Jesus made clear that Ronaldo’s reputation can influence conversations before a match, particularly when it comes to physical management and planning, but it does not guarantee minutes once the game begins. For the Portugal boss, the team’s needs during the match ultimately outweigh the status of any individual player.

“Status is one thing”, Jesus explained on Wednesday. “The rules are the same for everyone. Now, status allows a player, and you have to be careful about this, to have certain decisions made before the game takes place. After the game takes place, it is the same for everyone.”

He explained that his decisions are always guided by the same objective: what he believes is best for Portugal. That principle applies even to Ronaldo, whose extraordinary career includes being the national team’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player.

“The coach has to make the decision. That is how I think and how I always make decisions, always based on one objective, which is what is best for the team, while always respecting the players.” The 72-year-old went even further when asked whether any player could change his tactical thinking. His answer was emphatic. “No player will change my ideas as a coach. Not him, not anyone in football. Not any president. Never. Zero.”

The controversy began with Ronaldo’s unexpected absence from Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway. After starting against Wales in the opening match of the international window, Ronaldo remained on the bench for the entire game in Oslo, marking his first unused appearance in a competitive Portugal match in around 18 years. Ronaldo did warm up during the Norway match but was ultimately left on the bench as Gonçalo Ramos remained on the pitch.

The decision was followed by reports of frustration, missed group sessions and an intervention from Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proenca, who travelled to Copenhagen amid the growing attention surrounding the situation. The situation became more difficult to read when Ronaldo again failed to train with the group.

On Tuesday, he travelled with the squad to Malmo but completed individual work instead, with the federation explaining that the stadium gym did not have equipment required for his planned programme. Wednesday brought another absence, this time at Parken Stadium in Copenhagen, where Portugal held its final training session before facing Denmark.

The FPF confirmed Ronaldo did not train, while reports said he left the venue in a federation vehicle as his teammates continued their preparations. That development was particularly striking because Jesus had indicated shortly beforehand that Ronaldo would train. Reports subsequently emerged that Ronaldo had left the camp, although the circumstances and implications of his departure were still being reported differently by various outlets.

What did Jesus say about Ronaldo’s Denmark role?

Against that backdrop, Jesus was asked the obvious question: if Ronaldo does not start against Denmark, will he come off the bench? The Portugal manager refused to commit himself, insisting that he cannot know what decisions the match will require before it begins.

“I don’t know. We’re back to the same point: I don’t know what will happen in the match. If we need him, he’ll come on. If we don’t need him, he won’t. I don’t know. And you’re sports journalists, so you know exactly what I mean”, the 72-year-old told reporters.

That response provides the clearest indication yet of the one factor that will determine Ronaldo’s involvement: what Portugal needs during the match. Jesus has repeatedly stressed that he does not decide substitutions according to a predetermined schedule, meaning even an expected 30-minute cameo is ultimately dependent on how the game develops.

Ronaldo’s extraordinary Portugal status meets new approach

Jesus had previously revealed that he had agreed with Ronaldo that the forward would not start against either Norway or Denmark. The decision was based on workload management and the manager’s knowledge of Ronaldo’s physical condition after their previous year together at Al-Nassr.

The coach has consistently rejected the idea of a personal feud. He has instead described the situation as a combination of pre-match workload planning and in-game tactical decisions, while insisting that Ronaldo’s status does not give him automatic playing time.

The situation represents an unusual moment for a player who has been a central figure in Portugal’s starting lineup for more than two decades. Ronaldo remains the national team’s all-time leading scorer with 146 goals, but Jesus has made clear that his reputation will not determine substitutions or tactical decisions.

Portugal faces Denmark on October 1, with Ronaldo’s involvement now surrounded by more uncertainty than at any point since Jesus took charge. Whether he starts, appears from the bench, or does not play at all will ultimately depend on the circumstances Jesus has repeatedly referred to.

The Citizens are enduring one of the most challenging periods in the club’s history. Facing 114 charges for violating Premier League financial regulations, the club allegedly gained an unfair competitive advantage that enabled them to build a dominant roster.

The charges stem from a period during Pep Guardiola’s time at the helm. Following his departure, supporters and media called on the Catalan coach to speak out, and he has since issued his stance on the matter.

“I want every single Man City fan to know I am here; more than ever,” Guardiola said through a statement. “I am, always have been, always will, be behind my club, my owner, my chairman, Ferran, the players, staff, Enzo and you, our unique supporters. Let me be clear: we will get through this together. I love you all.”

What could happen to Manchester City?

On the sporting front, potential sanctions range from substantial point deductions in the Premier League to potential expulsion or demotion from the top flight. Commission panels could also consider stripping the club of titles secured during the period under review.

Financially, the club faces unprecedented monetary fines alongside prospective transfer bans spanning multiple registration windows. Such restrictions would severely hinder squad rebuilding efforts and limit the club’s commercial flexibility moving forward.

Beyond domestic penalties, UEFA could enforce separate bans from European competitions, barring Manchester City from the Champions League. The combination of financial penalties and operational limits poses a major threat to the club’s position at the summit of global soccer.

The milestone had stood for years and had been associated with one of the biggest names in American soccer. Now, at just 17, Albert has taken his place in the USMNT record books while helping the national team secure its second victory of the international window.

Pochettino selected the youngest starting lineup of his tenure, with an average age of just 23 years and 25 days. The decision initially seems risky when Chile recovered from an early deficit, but the young Americans repeatedly responded when the match swung against them.

Sebastian Berhalter opened the scoring in the 37th minute before Diego Ulloa equalized in first-half stoppage time. Maximiliano Gutierrez then put the visitors ahead shortly after halftime, but Julian Hall equalized in the 51st minute before Chris Richards restored the lead with a header in the 72nd.

Albert’s late strike eventually settled the match, completing a second consecutive victory for a squad packed with teenagers and players still establishing themselves internationally. The USA had previously defeated Peru 4-1, with several players making their senior debuts during the opening match.

Albert makes history in stoppage time

Albert came off the bench and delivered the final goal of the evening three minutes into second-half stoppage time. The teenager reacted to Auston Trusty’s effort and redirected the ball toward goal, with the shot striking the crossbar before bouncing down just over the line.

At 17 years and 131 days old, Albert became the youngest goalscorer in USMNT history, surpassing Pulisic’s previous mark of 17 years and 253 days. Pulisic had held the record for roughly 10 years, after scoring against Bolivia in 2016.

The margin was significant, with Albert breaking Pulisic’s record by 122 days. The unusual finish did little to diminish the moment, as the crowd of 21,680 at Energizer Park celebrated the teenager’s first senior international goal.

Pulisic’s record finally falls

Pulisic established the previous record when he was still a rising star at Borussia Dortmund. His goal against Bolivia at 17 years and 253 days made him the youngest American to score for the senior national team, a record that survived a decade before another teenage talent finally surpassed it. Albert’s achievement also places him ahead of Juan Agudelo, Gio Reyna and Jozy Altidore on the list of the youngest USMNT goalscorers.

His breakthrough comes during a camp specifically designed to give America’s next generation valuable senior experience. The teenager’s rise has followed a similar European path to Pulisic. Albert developed in the LA Galaxy academy before joining Borussia Dortmund in 2024, later becoming the youngest American to make a Bundesliga appearance when he debuted against Freiburg in April 2026.

Ream confirmed his retirement ahead of the USA‘s friendly against Chile in his hometown of St. Louis, bringing an end to a remarkable 16-year international career. The 38-year-old defender leaves the national team with 86 caps, two CONCACAF Nations League titles and appearances at the 2022 and 2026 World Cups.

“The kids are getting younger and younger, and I don’t mean my own kids,” Ream said, via FOX Sports, explaining why the evolution of the team and the game had changed his thinking. “I’m proud of being a part of something for 16 years, but it is time to step away and stay away from playing with the national team.”

Ream‘s decision had been discussed before the latest camp, despite previously telling Pochettino that he intended to remain available until he retired from football altogether. His final appearance came at the 2026 World Cup, where he started four matches and captained the USA during its home tournament.

Ream wanted to help create the next leader

The defender’s influence extended far beyond his performances at centre-back, particularly during his time wearing the armband. Ream captained the national team more than 30 times, including at the World Cup, and viewed the responsibility partly as an opportunity to prepare the next generation of leaders.

“It’s an honor, there’s not really any other way to put it,” Ream said. “The biggest thing that I wanted to do as I started to get the captain’s armband more and more is, ‘How can I help these guys become the next captain? How can I help this group continue to develop and be more special than they are.'”

That transition is now happening much sooner than it might have appeared. Ream leaves behind a squad increasingly filled with younger players, including 17-year-old Cavan Sullivan, while established figures such as Pulisic, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie and Gio Reyna remain important voices.

Pochettino reveals another name in the captaincy picture

Pulisic’s credentials for the role are obvious. He has earned 90 USMNT caps, scored 33 goals, and has worn the captain’s armband on numerous occasions since becoming the youngest player to captain the national team in 2018.

However, Pochettino has made it clear that the decision will involve another experienced leader: Tyler Adams. The midfielder captained the USA against Peru during the current international window, giving him his first opportunity to wear the armband under Pochettino. “Tyler is doing great. I think after two years, he was showing with (Ream), too, that he’s a great leader,” the coach said, via The Athletic.

“He translates everything — the culture from the country to the new players, to the young players. He translates to the fans what it means to represent that country. He also translates to the coaches.” Pochettino then made the situation even clearer, saying, “And of course, after tomorrow, maybe we are thinking to try to name the new captain. And of course, Tyler is one of the candidates.”

Pulisic’s role remains central

That does not remove Pulisic from the conversation. The Milan forward remains one of the most experienced active members of the national team, while his status within the squad means his leadership can extend well beyond who physically wears the armband.

Pochettino’s decision at the 2026 World Cup also showed that he is willing to separate star status from the captaincy. Ream was chosen to lead the team during the tournament, while Pulisic continued to be one of the nation’s most important attacking players.

The developments have created plenty of intrigue around Portugal‘s preparations for its next fixture. While the situation has since been discussed behind closed doors, reports from Portugal suggest that the original plan and what happened on the pitch did not completely align.

According to SIC Noticias, Ronaldo, Jorge Jesus and Pedro Proenca had discussed his involvement before Portugal’s four Nations League matches. The reported agreement was that the captain would play in the opening and final fixtures, while being rested for the two matches in between.

Under that plan, Ronaldo would feature against Wales and in the final match of the window, while Norway and Denmark were expected to be games in which he would not play. SIC Noticias also reported that Portugal had even considered keeping the veteran forward at the Cidade do Futebol rather than having him travel for the matches in which he was scheduled to rest.

The arrangement was designed to manage Ronaldo’s workload across a demanding international window. At 41, the Portugal captain remains an important figure for the national team, but Jesus has shown that he is prepared to manage his minutes according to the demands of individual matches.

Norway changed the situation

The original understanding became more complicated after Portugal’s opening match. Following the victory over Wales, Jesus reportedly reconsidered his plans and left open the possibility of using Ronaldo against Norway.

Ronaldo ultimately started on the bench for the 2-1 victory in Oslo, and Jesus later revealed that he had planned to introduce his captain during the second half. However, the match developed differently, with Goncalo Ramos scoring the winning goal and Portugal needing a different profile of player to protect its advantage.

“I had even agreed with him that he would come on for the final half-hour, but the match didn’t require it,” Jesus explained after the game. The coach insisted that the decision was tactical and not related to Ronaldo’s fitness. “It wasn’t to protect him physically, because he was fit to play for as long as I wanted,” Jesus said.

Ronaldo was reportedly unhappy with what happened

The decision left Ronaldo frustrated, according to reports, particularly because he had expected to have a role in the match after the earlier discussions. The situation became more noticeable after the final whistle when Ronaldo reportedly headed straight down the tunnel instead of joining his teammates in acknowledging the travelling Portuguese supporters.

Jesus subsequently said that he needed to speak with his captain about what had happened. “I need to speak with him, but I know him well,” the Portugal coach said, while making clear that he could not speak for Ronaldo’s state of mind without discussing the incident with him.

The unusual sequence of events also coincided with Ronaldo completing individual work at the team hotel rather than joining the main group for part of Portugal’s training in Malmo. The Portuguese Football Federation explained that the stadium lacked a specific piece of gym equipment required for his session, meaning there was no reported injury behind the decision.

Proenca steps in as Portugal prepares for Denmark

The developments eventually prompted Pedro Proenca to meet with Jesus and Ronaldo at Portugal’s hotel in Malmo. Portuguese media reported that the three-way meeting took place on Wednesday morning and was conducted in a calm and friendly atmosphere.

The meeting followed a private conversation between Jesus and Ronaldo the previous evening. Reports from Record and A Bola described the discussions as an attempt to clear the air before Portugal travelled to Copenhagen for its next Nations League fixture.

The intervention was significant because Jesus and Ronaldo already have a relationship from their time together at Al-Nassr. Jesus previously coached the forward at club level and has repeatedly emphasized that Ronaldo remains an important player for Portugal.

Will Ronaldo play against Denmark?

Despite Jesus previously suggesting that Ronaldo could play against Denmark, SIC Noticias reports that Ronaldo is not expected to feature in Thursday’s match, in accordance with the original rotation plan discussed before the international window.

That would mean the Norway match effectively altered the context rather than necessarily changing the original agreement itself. Jesus briefly considered using Ronaldo in Oslo, but ultimately chose not to do so, while the reported plan still points toward the captain sitting out the Denmark fixture.

Lozano had not played for Mexico since March 2024, having been left out throughout Javier Aguirre’s tenure. Marquez brought the San Diego FC winger, currently on loan at LA Galaxy, back for his first squad and handed him a start against Colombia. “I think Hirving can still give us something more. He’s a difference-maker,” Marquez said when explaining the decision. However, he will not start against Peru on Tuesday.

That draw in Baltimore came courtesy of Gilberto Mora, who canceled out Luis Suarez’s ninth-minute opener with a 62nd-minute equalizer to become the youngest goalscorer in the history of the Mexican national team at 17.

Peru, meanwhile, arrives in need of a response after a 4-1 loss to the USMNT in Orlando on Saturday, with Gianluca Lapadula scoring the lone goal for Mano Menezes’ side.

Confirmed lineup for Mexico

Marquez will stick with the 4-3-3 he used against Colombia, with Obed Vargas and Alvaro Fidalgo coming into the midfield alongside Denzell García. German Berterame will lead the line, with Raul Jimenez and Julian Quinones still sidelined through injury.

Mexico confirmed starting XI: Óscar García; Jeremy Márquez, Víctor Guzmán, Everardo López, Mateo Chávez; Denzell García, Álvaro Fidalgo, Obed Vargas; Orbelín Pineda, Isaías Violante, Germán Berterame.

Confirmed lineup for Peru

Menezes will line up in a 4-2-3-1, with Pedro Gallese in goal, Yoshimar Yotun anchoring the midfield and Magallanes and Ugarriza leading the attack.

Peru confirmed starting XI: Pedro Gallese; Marco Huamán, Erick Noriega, Renzo Garcés, Marcos López; Wilder Cartagena, Oslimg Mora, Yoshimar Yotún; Piero Magallanes, Jairo Vélez, Adrián Ugarriza.

Julian Quinones, who is on the final shortlist for the Ballon d’Or, missed out on Rafael Marquez’s squad list due to a muscle injury suffered in his most recent match with Al Qadsiah.

As for Raul Jimenez, the striker did not make the roster either due to a left knee injury sustained against Everton in the Carabao Cup on September 16.

Julian Quinones had a breakout 2025–26 season

In the Saudi Pro League, Julian Quinones routinely faces world-class talent such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, and Joao Felix. However, the Mexican forward shone the brightest among those stars during the 2025–26 season.

Quinones finished the campaign as the league’s top goalscorer with 33 goals. He outpaced Ivan Toney (32) and Cristiano Ronaldo (28) to secure the SPL Golden Boot.

At the 2026 World Cup, Quinones also put on stellar performances. The forward scored his country’s first goal of the tournament, ultimately finishing the competition with four goals for El Tri.

Raul Jimenez faces imminent transition

During the summer, Raul Jimenez confirmed his return to Wolverhampton following their relegation to the Championship. While the decision was driven by loyalty, many view it as a step toward his eventual retirement from top-flight European football.

For the Mexican national team, Jimenez remained the starting striker during the World Cup. Nevertheless, Chivas forward Armando Gonzalez is increasingly regarded as the future of the position, making Jimenez’s absence a critical opportunity for Gonzalez to step up as his replacement.

The United States made an impressive start to the post-World Cup cycle, cruising past Peru on Saturday with four different goalscorers. Sebastian Berhalter, Justin Ellis, Julian Hall and Malik Tillman all found the net, while 11 players made their senior debuts, giving Pochettino plenty of reasons to experiment again.

The result also highlighted the depth of the new-look squad, with several teenagers immediately making an impact. Cavan Sullivan was particularly influential on his debut, while Julian Hall scored and assisted after coming off the bench.

The national team has also enjoyed a strong record at Energizer Park, winning all four previous matches at the venue. The United States has not lost to Chile on home soil since 1995, although the latter has won the most recent meeting between the sides, a 1-1 draw in 2019 following Pulisic’s early goal.

Meanwhile, Chile enters the friendly after a 1-0 defeat to Canada, a match that became particularly difficult after the national team finished with nine players. Gabriel Suazo and Lucas Cepeda were both sent off, ruling them out of the meeting with the United States. Interim manager Nicolas Cordova therefore has several decisions to make, particularly on the left side of defence and attack.

So, is Christian Pulisic playing today?

No, Christian Pulisic will not play against Chile because he was left out of the United States squad for the September and October international window. Pochettino selected a roster focused heavily on younger players and fresh faces as the national team begins its 2030 World Cup cycle, while the 28-year-old winger was also coming off a period of recovery following his World Cup injury.

The omission was confirmed when Pochettino announced his 28-player roster, which did not include Pulisic or several other established names. U.S. Soccer described the squad as a blend of experience and potential, with 13 players from the 2026 World Cup team included alongside a new generation of prospects.

That means the left side of the attack is open for another player to make his case, with various outlets projecting Cole Campbell to receive his senior debut. The rest of the projected attack features Cavan Sullivan, Gio Reyna and Julian Hall, underlining how dramatically the squad has changed since the World Cup.

With four friendlies scheduled during the international window, Pochettino has plenty of incentive to continue rotating his squad. The manager made 10 substitutions against Peru, while several players who did not feature are now candidates to enter the lineup against Chile.

USMNT vs Chile: Confirmed lineups

USMNT confirmed XI (4-2-3-1): Chris Brady; Sergiño Dest, Miles Robinson, Neil Pierre, Frankie Westfield; Sebastian Berhalter, Brooklyn Raines, Adri Mehmeti; Giovanni Reyna, Julian Hall, Antonee Robinson.

Chile confirmed XI (4-3-3): Lawrence Vigoroux; Felipe Faundez, Jonathan Villagra, Ivan Roman, Diego Ulloa; Victor Felipe Mendez, Felipe Loyola, Nils Reichmuth; Maximiliano Gutierrez, Ben Brereton, Dario Osorio.

Messi currently holds 207 caps and will add one more on October 6, when he makes his farewell appearance for Argentina against Benin at the Estadio Monumental. That match will close out his international career, freezing his final tally at 208 and leaving Modric with a fixed target to chase.

Croatia still has four Nations League games left this year: England in Rijeka on October 3 and the rematch with Spain in Split on October 6, followed by a trip to Wembley to face England on November 12 and a home game against Czechia in Osijek on November 15. If Modric features in all four, he would draw level with Messi at 208 by the end of the year, leaving the record to fall in 2027 at the earliest.

That timeline will depend on how Slaven Bilic handles his captain’s workload. The Croatia boss has been rotating Modric through this demanding window with an eye on his club commitments at AC Milan, where he is under contract through June 2027, but the midfielder made clear to Bilic and the Croatian Football Federation after the World Cup that he remained available to represent his country.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s record remains a distant target

Catching Cristiano Ronaldo, however, looks like a different story. The Portuguese forward leads the all-time list with 234 caps, 30 more than Modric, and unlike Messi, he has no plans to step away from the national team.

Ronaldo sat out Portugal’s 2-1 win over Norway, but he could add up to four more appearances this year against Denmark on October 1, Norway on October 4, Denmark on November 14 and Wales on November 17.

With both players at 41 and still active for their countries, the gap is unlikely to shrink as long as Ronaldo keeps getting minutes under Jorge Jesus, and he has offered no timeline for his retirement. “Is it possible? Yes. Is it very likely? Yes. But will it happen? No, I don’t know,” Ronaldo said ahead of Portugal’s Nations League opener against Wales, leaving Modric in need of both Ronaldo walking away and several more years of international football of his own to close the gap.

Both players had received a personal invitation from Messi to be part of the send-off, but the Giallorossi ultimately decided to keep them in Italy during the international break.

In an official statement, the club explained that the decision was made “for sporting and logistical reasons, taking into account the length of the intercontinental journey and the proximity of the Club’s upcoming competitive fixtures“. Fabrizio Romano added that Roma have no intention of approving a long international trip, as they want both Dybala and Molina back in team training next week.

Gian Piero Gasperini’s side returns to Serie A action against Como on October 11, and the club had been reluctant for days to have the two Argentines take two intercontinental flights in such a short span, according to Corriere dello Sport. Roma were particularly wary of the fatigue a round trip to Buenos Aires could cause just days before a league fixture.

Neither player was set to take the field against Benin anyway: Dybala was left out of Lionel Scaloni’s squad for this window, while Molina is still serving a seven-match international ban imposed after the incidents that followed the 2026 World Cup final against Spain.

Their presence would have been purely symbolic, an emotional reunion with the captain they lifted the 2022 World Cup alongside in Qatar, but Roma chose not to make an exception for either player at a key stretch of the season.

Roma’s full statement on Dybala and Molina

“AS Roma announces that Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina will not attend the event being held in Argentina for the match between Argentina and Benin on 6 October.

The Club acknowledges the significance of the occasion for both players, who share a close bond with Lionel Messi and were part of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning team alongside him.

The decision has been made for sporting and logistical reasons, taking into account the length of the intercontinental journey and the proximity of the Club’s upcoming competitive fixtures.

AS Roma has the utmost respect for Lionel Messi and his extraordinary career and wishes him and the Argentine Football Association a very special evening.”

Match Overview

Mexico enter this international friendly looking to maintain their positive momentum as they continue building under their current coaching staff. Following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup, El Tri are focused on squad rotation and integrating fresh talent into the national team setup during this autumn window.

As for Peru, La Blanquirroja are searching for a statement victory on neutral ground to kick off their new cycle. Seeking to establish tactical identity and regain defensive stability, the South American side aims to test itself against top CONCACAF opposition ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures.

Mexico vs Peru record

Across 29 all-time meetings in all competitions, Mexico holds a slight advantage over Peru with 12 wins to La Blanquirroja’s 9, along with 8 draws. This matchup spans a rich history of international friendlies and competitive Copa America clashes dating back several decades.

In their most recent encounter in September 2022, Mexico secured a 1-0 win at the Rose Bowl thanks to a late goal from Hirving Lozano. Defense has largely defined recent fixtures between the two sides, with four of the last five matchups yielding two or fewer total goals.

Mexico’s upcoming games

Peru’s upcoming games

Summary

• Mexico will face Peru on Tuesday, September 29, for an International friendly match.
• DirectTV will stream the game between Mexico and Peru.
• Mexico hold a 12-8-9 record against Peru.
• Mexico won their most recent matchup by a 1-0 score against Peru (September 2022).

On Matchday 1 of the 2026–27 Nations League, Lamine Yamal scored just 104 seconds into the match against England, paving the way for Spain’s eventual victory.

In the following match, the winger scored 70 seconds after kickoff against Croatia. This marked the first time in the 106-year history of the Spanish national team that they scored within the first two minutes of two consecutive games—with Lamine Yamal as the goalscorer on both occasions, per Spanish stat expert MisterChip.

Lamine Yamal has his eyes set on the Ballon d’Or

This year, Lamine Yamal made his World Cup debut and lifted the trophy with Spain. He enjoyed a sensational year, and although a UEFA Champions League title with Barcelona eluded him, he remains a frontrunner to win the Ballon d’Or.

The winger has stated multiple times that he believes he is among the favorites for the individual accolade. In a World Cup year, international triumph carries immense weight with voters, much as it did for Lionel Messi in 2022.

With these individual performances, Lamine Yamal continues to make a compelling case for why he deserves the Ballon d’Or. While the final outcome rests with the voters, the winger is certainly making a strong impression with his brilliant form.

Spain are the best right now

Beyond their 2026 World Cup title, it is clear that Spain are the dominant team in world soccer right now. They enter as favorites in every match they play, even when performing on the road.

On Matchday 1, they defeated England at Wembley, one of the most formidable venues in global football. Now, they have their sights set on securing the Nations League title as they continue their reign at the summit of international soccer.

WHO: USMNT vs Chile
WHAT: International friendly
WHEN: 8:00PM ET / 5:00PM PT • Tuesday, September 29, 2026
WHERE: Fubo, Peacock, Telemundo, HBO Max, TNT USA
STREAM: WATCH NOW

Match Overview

The USMNT enter this international fixture looking to build tactical consistency as they navigate their post-World Cup program. Playing on home soil, the Stars and Stripes aim to evaluate squad depth, test new tactical variations, and secure a decisive victory against South American opposition.

As for Chile, La Roja arrive in urgent search of momentum on the road. Looking to re-establish defensive stability and launch a fresh tactical era after a challenging qualification campaign, the South American side aims to test its squad against top CONCACAF competition.

USMNT vs Chile record

Across 11 all-time meetings in all competitions, Chile holds a slight edge over the United States with 5 wins to the USMNT’s 3, alongside 3 draws. The head-to-head series spans historical World Cup encounters—such as Chile’s 5-2 win at the 1950 World Cup—and Copa América clashes alongside international friendlies.

In recent times, fixtures between the two sides have been closely contested. Their most recent encounter in March 2019 ended in a 1-1 draw in Houston, following a 3-2 victory for Chile in Rancagua in 2015. With the USMNT seeking their first win over La Roja since 1999, this matchup adds another competitive chapter to their intercontinental rivalry.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the USA vs Peru live stream on Fubo. The platform is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and gaming consoles, as well as web browsers on your computer.

In addition to this international friendly, a subscription to Fubo gives you access to a host of other top soccer competitions. You can watch leagues such as LaLiga and enjoy comprehensive coverage of global soccer.

The service is available for $14.99 per month, offering great value for soccer fans who want to follow multiple leagues and tournaments throughout the year.

Beyond soccer, the platform also features a deep library of movies, TV shows, and other live sports, making it a complete entertainment package for the whole family.

For a full schedule of upcoming matches, check out our International Friendlies TV schedule page.

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.

The decision lines up with a plan reportedly relayed by Gazzetta dello Sport even before this window began: start Modric against Czechia, rest him against Spain, and then decide later whether he’s needed from the first minute against England or in the rematch with Spain in October. Croatia faces all four of those matches inside this single break, making careful management essential for a player of Modric’s age.

There’s added incentive to protect him given his club situation, with AC Milan and manager Ruben Amorim hoping for a fully fit Modric once a demanding fixture schedule resumes after the international break. Bilic has made clear he intends to keep leaning on his experience without running him into the ground across four matches in such a short span.

Despite the plan to manage his minutes, Bilic has acknowledged that convincing Modric himself is often the hardest part of the equation, since the veteran has never been content simply to coast through appearances.

Whether he comes on at some point against Spain or waits for the next fixture, Modric’s influence on this Croatia squad remains as significant as ever, even in a reduced role.

Modric keeps making history at 41

Modric’s opener in that 2-1 win over Czechia made him Croatia’s oldest ever goalscorer, netting his 30th international goal with a right-footed strike from outside the box in the 47th minute.

The record adds to an already remarkable late-career run for Modric, who continues to produce at an age when most players have long since retired from international football. It’s precisely that kind of workload, performing at a high level across long minutes, that has Bilic and Milan both eager to manage his appearances carefully through this stretch of matches.

Ronaldo’s situation immediately raised questions because he was seen arriving at the training ground before leaving, while his teammates continued their preparations. However, the explanation for his absence would eventually emerge, with Portugal providing important clarification about what happened in Malmo.

The 41-year-old superstar’s latest situation comes only days after Jorge Jesus made an unusual selection decision in Oslo. The Portugal coach left his captain on the bench for the entire match against Norway, ending an 18-year streak in which Ronaldo had always appeared in an official international match when available.

Jesus insisted that the decision was tactical rather than related to Ronaldo’s fitness. “It wasn’t the right moment to bring Ronaldo into the game; it was a tactical choice,” the coach explained, while also stressing that the veteran remained part of his plans.

The experienced manager had initially intended to introduce Ronaldo during the second half, but Goncalo Ramos’ performance and the way the match developed changed his plans. Portugal held on for a 2-1 victory after goals from Joao Felix and Ramos, with Erling Haaland scoring for Norway.

Another twist after the Norway victory

Ronaldo’s unusual night against Norway was also followed by an incident after the final whistle. While the Portugal squad went toward the travelling supporters to acknowledge them, reports said Ronaldo headed straight down the tunnel without joining the celebrations.

Jesus said he had not personally seen what happened and indicated that he would speak with his captain before drawing any conclusions. “I need to speak with him, but I know him well,” the Portugal coach said, adding that the national team belongs to everyone.

The attention then turned toward Tuesday’s training session in Malmo, where Portugal is preparing for its next Nations League fixture against Denmark. Ronaldo arrived at Eleda Stadion around 30 minutes before the session, but he never joined his teammates on the field.

The unusual scene naturally prompted questions about whether the forward had suffered a physical problem following the Norway match. Those concerns were eventually addressed by the Portuguese Football Federation, which provided a straightforward explanation for the decision.

The training situation in Malmo, however, appears far less dramatic. Ronaldo’s decision to work separately was explained by the lack of the necessary gym equipment rather than a reported physical problem, allowing the Selecao to continue preparing for Denmark without a new injury concern surrounding its captain.

The reason behind Ronaldo’s training absence revealed

According to the Portuguese Football Federation, Ronaldo completed an individual gym session at the team hotel because Eleda Stadion did not have a specific piece of equipment required for his planned workout. Rather than changing the session or using equipment that did not meet his requirements, the captain returned to the hotel to complete his individual work there.

The Portuguese Football Federation told A Bola that Malmo’s stadium was missing a particular piece of gym equipment that Ronaldo needed for his session. The explanation means there was no reported injury concern surrounding Ronaldo’s absence from the group session. He was able to carry out his planned work separately, with Portugal continuing its preparations at the Swedish venue before travelling to Copenhagen.

Jesus still has decision to make

These developments come at an interesting moment for Jesus, who now has to decide how to use Ronaldo against the Red and Whites. A Bola also suggests that Jorge Jesus will assess if Cristiano Ronaldo’s actions after the final whistle in Norway, during which he failed to recognize or welcome the fans, will influence his match selections for the next matchday.

That leaves Ronaldo’s role against Denmark open, although the veteran remains available for selection. Portugal has already collected six points from its opening two Nations League matches, giving Jesus some flexibility as he manages his squad across a busy international window.

Ronaldo’s omission from the starting lineup was significant, but the initial plan suggested that his night in Oslo would still involve some playing time. Jesus later revealed that he had expected to introduce the Portugal captain during the final stages of the match. “I had even agreed with him that he would come on for the final half-hour, but the match didn’t require it,” Jesus explained after the game.

The situation changed because Goncalo Ramos was having an influential performance. Ramos scored the Selecao’s second goal after taking advantage of a mistake from goalkeeper Orjan Nyland and also had another effort ruled out for offside, giving Jesus little reason to remove him while Portugal was protecting its lead. “Gonçalo Ramos was playing well, he had scored a goal, he had another one ruled out, and I felt it wasn’t the right moment to take him off,” the experinced coach told ESPN.

The decision immediately created a remarkable statistic surrounding one of the longest international careers in soccer history. Ronaldo had experienced something similar before, but more than 18 years had passed since the previous competitive match in which he remained an unused substitute for Portugal.

Ronaldo’s 18-year streak finally comes to an end

For the first time since June 15, 2008, Ronaldo completed an official Portugal match without stepping onto the pitch despite being available and included in the squad. The previous occasion came at Euro 2008, when Portugal faced Switzerland in its final group-stage match. Portugal had already secured qualification for the quarter-finals, and then-coach Luiz Felipe Scolari made several changes as Ronaldo remained on the bench throughout a 2-0 defeat.

Since that night, Ronaldo had occasionally started on the bench in competitive matches, but he had always eventually entered the game when available. The Norway match therefore ended an extraordinary 18-year streak, spanning more than 6,600 days.

What did Jesus say about his decision?

With Norway pushing for an equalizer late in the game, Jesus decided that Portugal needed a different type of player to help preserve the advantage. The coach was also keen to make clear that Ronaldo’s absence had nothing to do with a physical problem. “It wasn’t to protect him physically, because he was fit to play for as long as I wanted,” Jesus said.

The Portugal coach explained that the circumstances on the pitch ultimately made Ronaldo’s introduction unnecessary. Instead of bringing on the captain, Jesus chose an option he believed would provide greater balance as Portugal attempted to see out the 2-1 victory. “The match continued to develop and it was no longer the right moment for Cris to come on; instead, we needed another player to guarantee balance and the result,” he added.

Despite the unusual decision, Jesus rejected the idea that Ronaldo had been pushed out of his plans. The coach stressed that leaving him on the bench for the entire match was a decision specific to the circumstances against Norway rather than a declaration about his international future. “It was a decision. I didn’t think it was the ideal moment, I needed a player with different characteristics, but that doesn’t mean he is out of the picture — quite the opposite,” the manager added.

De la Fuente explained the thinking behind the rotation directly. “In this format, with so much travel and almost no training, there will be some changes. Not only to refresh the side, but because we have 26 players who can start. Everyone is in perfect condition and we’ll assess which positions it makes most sense to change,” the Spaniard coach explained.

The coach made clear this isn’t about doubting Rodri or anyone else being left out, framing it instead as a byproduct of squad depth. “We are not going to change the whole team, because the defined core must be kept, but there are always players who bring freshness and energy. I would have preferred two more days of rest,” De la Fuente said, before adding that those coming in “have the level and guarantees, and have earned it“.

De la Fuente also pointed to a statistic showing that substitutes under his management have scored at a higher rate, reinforcing his comfort with rotating even a player as important as Rodri.

“We have two starting elevens, let’s call them that, because they are very good, the best in the world,” he said, a claim that gained extra weight after Alex Baena and Mikel Oyarzabal both came off the bench to help turn around the win over England.

Spain’s confirmed lineup for Croatia

The confirmed XI shows just how far De la Fuente is willing to go with his rotation, leaving out not just Rodri but Pedri and Dani Olmo as well, with Zubimendi, Fabian and Fermin forming a completely fresh midfield trio behind Yamal and Baena in support of Oyarzabal up front.

Spain confirmed lineup: Unai Simon (C); Marc Pubill, Pau Cubarsi, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella; Martin Zubimendi, Fabian Ruiz, Fermin Lopez, Lamine Yamal, Alex Baena; Mikel Oyarzabal.

La Roja opened its post-World Cup campaign with a thrilling 3-2 comeback win over England at Wembley, with Yamal scoring inside the first two minutes before England hit back through Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane. Substitute Mikel Oyarzabal came off the bench to net the winner, and Spain survived a missed penalty from Kane to extend its unbeaten run to 39 games.

Croatia arrives with a win of its own, having beaten Czechia 2-1 in Prague behind goals from Luka Modric and Marco Pasalic, in a match that also marked Slaven Bilic’s return to the Croatia bench after 14 years away.

Luis De la Fuente is expected to make only minor tweaks to his winning side, keeping the same attacking trio that got the job done against England intact for this one. Croatia, meanwhile, should field a similarly experienced group as Bilic looks to build early momentum in his second stint in charge.

Confirmed lineup for Spain

De la Fuente made several changes from the side that beat England, with Dean Huijsen coming in for Laporte at center-back and a fresh midfield trio of Martin Zubimendi, Fabian Ruiz and Fermin Lopez replacing Rodri, Pedri and Dani Olmo.

Spain confirmed starting XI: Unai Simon; Marc Pubill, Pau Cubarsi, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella; Martin Zubimendi, Fabian Ruiz; Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Alex Baena; Mikel Oyarzabal.

Confirmed lineup for Croatia

Bilic is starting Modric on the bench for this one, pairing Mateo Kovacic with Luka Sucic in central midfield while Ivan Perisic and Mario Pasalic operate further forward in support of lone striker Dion Drena Beljo.

Croatia confirmed starting XI: Dominik Livakovic; Ivan Smolčić, Josip Šutalo, Marin Pongračić, Josko Gvardiol; Josip Mišić, Mateo Kovačić; Luka Sucic, Mario Pasalic, Ivan Perisic; Dion Drena Beljo.

England fell to a 3-2 defeat against Spain at Wembley, despite taking a 2-1 lead into half-time through Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane. Czechia suffered a narrower 2-1 defeat to Croatia, meaning both national teams enter Matchday 2 without a point.

Czechia began its Nations League campaign with a 2-1 home defeat to Croatia, with Luka Modric opening the scoring before Adam Karabec equalised. Marco Pasalic eventually restored Croatia’s advantage, leaving Santi Denia’s side under pressure ahead of England’s visit. Denia is beginning a new era with the national team after replacing Miroslav Koubek.

The Three Lions have lost only one of their nine meetings with the Repre, winning six and drawing two. The only defeat came in Prague during Euro 2020 qualifying in October 2019, when the hosts recovered from Kane’s early penalty to win 2-1.

The most recent meeting ended differently, with England securing a 1-0 victory at Wembley during Euro 2020. Tuesday’s match will therefore be another test for both teams as they attempt to move their Nations League campaigns forward.

So, is Jude Bellingham playing against Czechia?

Bellingham will not retain his place in England’s starting lineup despite producing a performance that strengthened his case to in Tuchel’s attacking midfield structure. The 23-year-old is instead being rested. However, Anthony Gordon also impressed against Spain, while Bukayo Saka remains on the right and Harry Kane through the middle.

Bellingham’s possible inclusion late rin the game could turn out particularly significant because England has already lost several established players from the squad. Cole Palmer, Declan Rice, Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo and Tino Livramento all withdrew before the international window because of injury or workload considerations.

Czechia vs England: Confirmed lineups

Czech Republic confirmed XI (4-2-3-1): Kovar; Krejci, Hranac, Chaloupek, Slama; Sadilek, Cerv; Karabec, Sulc, Radosta; Hlozek.

England confirmed XI (4-3-2-1): Trafford; Alexander-Arnold, Chalobah, Guehi, Hall; Rogers, Lewis-Skelly, Anderson; Saka, Gordon; Kane.

Manager Luis de la Fuente has decided to leave Pedri out of the starting XI to face Croatia. Nevertheless, the decision does not come as a total surprise.

Luis de la Fuente has periodically rotated Pedri out of Spain’s starting lineups during his managerial tenure. The move is purely tactical, as the Barcelona midfielder is fully fit and not carrying an injury.

Pedri has become an effective impact substitute

According to reports, Luis de la Fuente prefers alternative tactical dynamics in central midfield alongside anchors like Rodri or Fabián Ruiz. While some fans expected Pedri to automatically start given his regular starring role at Barcelona, De la Fuente has often favored alternative pairings in his system.

However, as a substitute, Pedri has proven to be an exceptional game-changer. He frequently enters matches in the second half when La Roja require greater possession control and creative incisiveness in the final third.

For this match, De la Fuente has opted to deploy Fabián Ruiz, Martín Zubimendi, and Fermín López in midfield. The manager’s selection allows him to rotate his options while managing workloads across a demanding international window.

The Chelsea forward had actually been recalled by Tuchel after missing this summer’s World Cup, but pulled himself out following the club’s defeat to Brentford, in which he played the full 90 minutes.

Palmer had been in strong form heading into the squad announcement, with four goals and two assists across all competitions this season under new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso.

Palmer’s absence leaves Tuchel to lean on reinforcements like James Garner and Morgan Gibbs-White, who were called up to help offset a squad already thinned by other withdrawals including Declan Rice, Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo and Tino Livramento.

England chases its first win of the tournament

England enters this one still searching for its first win of the Nations League campaign after falling 3-2 to Spain at Wembley in the opener, a result that saw the Three Lions blow a two-goal cushion in the second half. A win in Prague would go a long way toward steadying the ship early in this new cycle under Tuchel.

Czechia, for its part, is coming off its own opening loss to Croatia, meaning both sides will be desperate to avoid starting the campaign 0-2. With England still adjusting to a squad missing several key faces, this match carries real weight for Tuchel as he looks to build momentum before facing Croatia and Czechia again later in the window.

The United States made a statement in its first match after the 2026 World Cup, defeating Peru 4-1 in Orlando on Saturday. Eleven players made their senior debuts, while Justin Ellis, Julian Hall, Malik Tillman and Sebastian Berhalter all found the net in a performance that gave Pochettino plenty of encouragement.

The result also highlighted how much the national team is changing. Several teenagers were given opportunities, with Cavan Sullivan becoming the youngest United States debutant since Freddy Adu in 2006, while Hall scored and assisted after coming off the bench.

The Chile match provides another chance to continue that experimentation. With four matches scheduled during the September-October international window, Pochettino is expected to rotate heavily rather than rely on the same XI that started against Peru.

Chile arrives after difficult night against Canada

Chile enters the friendly after a 1-0 defeat to Canada on Saturday, with the match becoming even more complicated after two players were sent off. Captain Gabriel Suazo and Lucas Cepeda will therefore miss the meeting with the United States through suspension.

Nicolas Cordova remains in charge of the Chilean national team on an interim basis following Ricardo Gareca’s departure. The national team has also endured a difficult period in recent years, having missed the 2026 World Cup and now looking to rebuild with a younger group.

The United States has not beaten Chile since 2000, although the most recent meeting ended 1-1 in 2019, with Pulisic scoring in the fourth minute. The all-time series dates back to the 1950 World Cup, when Chile defeated the United States 5-2.

So, why is Christian Pulisic not playing?

Pulisic was left out of the United States squad for the entire September-October international window, meaning he is unavailable for the Chile match. The decision is linked to a combination of fitness management following his World Cup injury and Pochettino’s desire to evaluate younger players at the beginning of the new cycle.

Pulisic suffered a right lower-leg injury during the United States’ 2026 World Cup defeat to Belgium and subsequently missed much of Milan’s preseason. Although he has since returned to club action and scored against Lecce on September 20, the timing of this international window gives him an opportunity to continue rebuilding his match fitness.

Pochettino has also deliberately selected a youthful 28-player roster featuring 13 uncapped players, using the four friendlies to examine players who could become part of the national team’s future. The manager had previously emphasized evaluating other options rather than immediately bringing back established stars who were still working toward full fitness.

Importantly, Pulisic’s absence does not mean he has been removed from the national team’s plans. The winger has already scored on his return to action for the Rossoneri, and the decision is primarily about recovery, workload and giving opportunities to a new generation during non-competitive fixtures.

The United States will welcome Peru to Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando on Saturday, September 26, in the first of four matches during the September-October international window. The national team is using the fixture to begin preparing for the next World Cup cycle, while Peru is also looking to rebuild after missing the 2026 tournament.

Is Christian Pulisic playing for USMNT?

The United States is entering its first match since a 4-1 defeat to Belgium in the 2026 World Cup round of 16 ended its campaign on home soil. Despite the disappointment, Pochettino remains in charge after extending his contract through 2030, giving him a long-term opportunity to reshape the national team.

Several established players have been left out of this squad, including Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Folarin Balogun. The decision has opened the door for a remarkably young group, with Pochettino calling up more than a dozen players without senior international experience.

The most eye-catching name is 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan, who has earned his first senior call-up after an impressive run with the Philadelphia Union. The teenager has reportedly scored six goals in six games, and the friendly could provide him with an opportunity to make his international debut.

Other youngsters such as Julian Hall, Cole Campbell, Justin Ellis, Neil Pierre, Zavier Gozo, Brooklyn Raines and Frankie Westfield are also hoping to feature. With so many inexperienced players available, Pochettino has indicated that experimentation will be an important part of the match.

Peru also searching for a fresh start

Peru arrives in Orlando after missing out on the 2026 World Cup, with Mano Menezes continuing to assess his squad as he attempts to build a competitive team for the next cycle. The national team has won only one of its four matches in 2026, a 2-1 victory over Haiti.

Peru’s other recent results include a defeat to Senegal, a draw with Honduras and a 3-1 loss to eventual world champions Spain. The national team has also scored only one first-half goal across its four matches under Menezes while conceding eight times.

There is still plenty of experience available, however, with captain Yoshimar Yotún and André Carrillo among the senior figures expected to help guide a younger generation. Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese is also set for a return to Orlando, where he spent six seasons with Orlando City.

United States vs Peru: Confirmed lineups

Pochettino has several options available because the United States and Peru have agreed to allow 11 substitutes, potentially giving as many as 22 players an opportunity to feature. That could encourage the American manager to take an especially experimental approach before the national team’s more demanding fixtures against Mexico and Canada.

USMNT confirmed XI (4-2-3-1): Freese; Miller, Freeman, Trusty, Campbell; Musah, Adams; Tillman, Reyna, Sullivan; Ellis.

Peru confirmed XI (4-3-3): Gallese; Lopez, Garces, Araujo, Sonne; Yotun, Cartagena, Velez; Vidales, Lapadula, Magallanes.

Brazil secured a 4–2 victory over Australia in their second international friendly match against the Socceroos. Vinícius managed to convert a late penalty, though it was far from his standout performance for A Seleção.

Following the match, Carlo Ancelotti was questioned about Vini’s display, and the manager preached patience regarding the star forward, expressing full confidence that his top form will emerge soon.

“Vini Jr. deserves my patience. I know Vini very well. He’s an important player for Brazil and he will continue to be in the future,” Ancelotti said. “Even when Vini isn’t it in his best moment, he can still make the difference like he did today. Personally, I will be very patient, because he deserves this patience.”

Vinícius Júnior has lost stardom in Brazil

In recent months, Barcelona winger Raphinha has emerged as one of Brazil’s most vital players. However, with Raphinha’s rise, Vinícius Júnior has seen his standing as the focal star of the national team diminish.

During the World Cup, Vinícius produced a few bright moments, but overall it was a quiet tournament for the winger. Expectations surrounding him were exceptionally high, and he was unable to fulfill them completely.

With more time at the helm, Ancelotti expects his tactical setup to help Vinícius flourish once again. Having brought out the best in him during their time together in Madrid, the Italian manager knows precisely what is needed to restore Vini to peak form.

Brazil facea a major transition

Entering the World Cup, Brazil were widely expected to be top contenders. While they managed to navigate the group stage, their campaign in the knockout rounds fell well short of expectations.

Brazil were eliminated in the Round of 16 by Norway. Many supporters view the exit as part of a broader, difficult transition period, but established stars like Raphinha and Vinícius Júnior must deliver during these challenging times to prove their true value.

The report comes from Footy Headlines, which says an anonymous but reliable source has provided information suggesting Messi is seriously weighing up an earlier retirement. However, the outlet has stressed that there is no 100% confirmation of the claim, meaning the situation remains speculative for now.

Messi’s current agreement with Inter Miami is understood to run through the end of the 2027-28 MLS season, giving him the option to remain in professional soccer for roughly another two years. A decision to retire at the end of 2026 would therefore mean leaving the game considerably earlier than the end of his existing contract.

Footy Headlines usually focuses on soccer shirts, boots and equipment leaks rather than major career developments, making the report particularly unusual for the outlet. It has nevertheless stood by its information while repeatedly emphasizing that the claim has not been independently confirmed by Messi, Inter Miami or another official source.

The timing is also significant because the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has already made one major decision about his future this year. The 39-year-old stepped away from international action with Argentina after the 2026 World Cup. Thus, he will play his final international game in the Albiceleste colors against Benin on October 6, 2026, at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.

The reason behind the possible decision

The report’s timing comes shortly after the death of Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, on August 8, an event that had a profound personal impact on the Argentine. The decision to retire from international soccer also came after years of intense competition and following a World Cup campaign that ended with Argentina‘s defeat to Spain in the final.

Messi subsequently indicated that the time had come to close his international career, with his farewell understood to have been influenced by the emotional circumstances surrounding his family as well as the fact that he had already achieved the biggest prizes available with Argentina. Footy Headlines now reports that those circumstances are part of the wider context surrounding his consideration of a complete retirement from professional soccer.

That does not mean the superstar has confirmed that he will stop playing at the end of the year. He remains involved with Inter Miami and has continued his club career after returning from international duty, while the report itself makes clear that the information has not yet reached the level of official confirmation.

Inter Miami risk losing Messi earlier than expected

Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023, transforming the club’s profile and becoming one of the biggest attractions in Major League Soccer. His existing contract was designed to keep him in South Florida until December 2028, meaning a retirement at the end of 2026 would represent a substantial change to the expected timeline.

The Argentine has also continued to play a major role for the club at the age of 39. His arrival helped turn the Herons into a global soccer brand, while his performances have continued to attract enormous attention across MLS and beyond.

If the report eventually proves accurate, Messi would finish his professional career after more than two decades at the highest level. His honors include eight Ballon d’Or awards, Champions League titles with Barcelona, domestic trophies in Spain and France, the 2022 World Cup, and multiple Copa America triumphs.

Following Portugal’s victory over Norway in the 2026–27 UEFA Nations League, a match in which Ronaldo did not feature, Felix was asked about CR7’s march toward 1,000 goals and reiterated his personal mission to provide the assist when the moment arrives.

“I’ve thought about that,” Felix told Diario As in an interview about CR7’s 1,000 career goal. “When he’s one goal away, every time I get the ball I’ll look for him to see if I can give him the pass. That goal will go down in soccer history, and being part of it would be a great moment.”

How many goals is Cristiano Ronaldo away from 1,000 career goals?

Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 979 goals in 1,333 official matches. This leaves him just 21 goals away from the 1,000-goal mark—a milestone that appears well within reach this season.

The Portuguese legend has most of the season remaining with Al Nassr, alongside further international fixtures with the national team. However, as time ticks on, the pressure will continue to mount to maximize his goal output in every match.

Fortunately for Ronaldo, he enjoys wholehearted support from his teammates, as Felix’s words demonstrate. The players surrounding him are eager to help write soccer history, with the 1,000th goal standing as the most iconic landmark of all.

In the 54th minute, Mbappe scored the solitary goal that secured France’s 1–0 victory over Turkiye. However, in the 59th minute, he went down in clear discomfort and had to be substituted.

Following medical evaluations, doctors revealed that Mbappe suffered a hyperextension of his left knee. He has since been released back to Real Madrid for further medical assessment and recovery.

How long will Kylian Mbappe be out?

According to reports, Mbappe is expected to be out of action for approximately two weeks. He will miss France’s upcoming Nations League fixtures as he continues his recovery in Spain.

Real Madrid supporters are naturally concerned about the absence of their captain. Based on the current timeline, Mbappe could return for Los Blancos’ UEFA Champions League fixture against Roma on October 14, though his availability will depend on his recovery progress.

The primary concern among fans was Mbappe’s availability for the season’s first El Clasico against Barcelona. However, with that clash scheduled for October 25, it falls well outside his recovery window, and he is expected to have no trouble participating in the crucial match.

Who is replacing Kylian Mbappe for France?

When Mbappe was forced off against Turkiye, head coach Zinedine Zidane brought Desire Doue on as his replacement. Fortunately for the manager, France possess plenty of depth in attack to cover Mbappe’s absence.

France’s projected starting attack against Belgium features Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, and Desire Doue. Additionally, Zidane can call upon Rayan Cherki, Marcus Thuram, or Christopher Nkunku as alternative options in attack.

Near the right corner, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami were awarded a free kick following a foul. The Argentine captain took charge of the ball, determined to strike directly from distance.

From a near-impossible angle, Messi whipped the ball into the box—not as a cross, but as a brilliant direct shot that found the top corner of the Crew’s net to level the score at 1–1.

Lionel Messi continues to make history for Inter Miami.

During the Campeones Cup match against Cruz Azul, Lionel Messi scored his 100th goal for Inter Miami. He has since added two more goals to his tally, etching his name even deeper into the record books.

With those latest strikes, Messi has now reached 102 total goals for the Herons. His contract runs through December 2028, and he intends to fulfill it while bringing more titles to the club.

In a few days, Messi will retire from international soccer when Argentina faces Benin in his farewell match. However, he will continue his club career with Inter Miami, aiming to wrap up his legendary run on a high note.

Inter Miami will be missing seven players called up by their countries, including German Berterame with Mexico, Dayne St. Clair with Canada and Matias Galarza with Paraguay, but the core of Cristian Gonzalez’s side remains intact for this Eastern Conference clash.

The Herons sit third in the conference with 46 points off a 12-4-10 record, coming off a 2-2 draw with San Diego FC in which Messi and Luis Suarez both scored before Anders Dreyer’s brace canceled it out.

Columbus enter the match in must-win territory, sitting 13th in the East and seven points back of the final playoff spot with only eight games left to play. The Crew arrive in good form, having won 2-0 at CF Montreal on Matchday 27 behind second-half goals from Mohamed Farsi and Brais Mendez.

Confirmed lineup for Columbus Crew

Laurent Courtois enters this one missing a center-back and a forward option, with Steven Moreira and Gonzalo Tapia both suspended and Wessam Abou Ali sidelined by a knee injury.

Columbus Crew confirmed lineup: Patrick Schulte; Mohamed Farsi, Sean Zawadzki, Eric Bailly, Malte Amundsen; Anass Zaroury, Dylan Chambost, Taha Habroune, Santiago Rodríguez; Brais Méndez, Josef Martínez.

Confirmed lineup for Inter Miami

Kily Gonzalez has a much longer absence list to manage, with Mateo Silvetti, Tadeo Allende, Ian Fray, and Telasco Segovia out through injury on top of the seven players away on international duty.

Inter Miami confirmed lineup: Rocco Ríos Novo; Micael, Casemiro, Gonzalo Luján; Sergio Reguilón, Rodrigo De Paul, Yannick Bright, Facundo Mura; Dániel Pintér, Luis Suárez, Lionel Messi.

Portugal broke the deadlock in the 17th minute through Joao Felix, whose disguised finish snuck past Ørjan Nyland after a slick move down the left. Norway hit back early in the second half when Erling Haaland turned in Patrick Berg’s header off an Martin Odegaard free kick, leveling the score.

But the celebration barely had time to settle before Portugal struck again, as a wayward pass from Nyland landed straight at Ramos’ feet, and he calmly lifted it over the exposed goalkeeper to restore the lead.

Ramos nearly doubled his tally soon after, pouncing on another mistake by Nyland to roll the ball into an empty net, only to see the goal chalked off for offside. Diogo Costa held firm the rest of the way despite a wave of late Norwegian pressure, keeping Portugal’s lead intact and sealing the result in Jesus’ side’s favor.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s chase for 1,000 career goals put on hold

Ronaldo’s pursuit of 1,000 career goals will have to wait after not playing a single minute against Norway, leaving him stuck on 979 total goals, 21 shy of the milestone, with 833 coming for his clubs and 146 for Portugal. The rest day means the countdown stays frozen for now, but Jesus has already made clear the veteran won’t be sidelined for long.

Ronaldo is expected to return to the lineup for Portugal’s remaining matches in this window, starting with the clash against Denmark on October 1 before the rematch with Norway on October 4, giving him multiple chances to close the gap on the historic milestone before this international break wraps up.

If Ronaldo doesn’t convert during this international window, he’ll still have chances to reach the milestone with Al Nassr once club football resumes, with his side returning to action against Al Diriyah in the Saudi Pro League on October 9.

“It wasn’t the right moment to bring Ronaldo into the game; it was a tactical choice. I needed a player with different characteristics, but that doesn’t mean he’s out of the options,” Jesus said, framing the decision as a specific tactical need for this particular matchup rather than a broader statement about Ronaldo’s standing in the squad.

Jesus also left the door open for Ronaldo’s immediate return, adding, “Perhaps he’ll play against Denmark“. The comment suggests the veteran won’t be sidelined for long, with Portugal’s next fixture just days away on October 1.

With Portugal now sitting on six points from two matches, the coach appears comfortable rotating his attack as he sees fit heading into the rest of this Nations League window.

Jesus’ gamble paid off as Ramos delivered the winner

Whatever doubts existed about resting Ronaldo for a matchup of this magnitude were quickly answered on the pitch, as Goncalo Ramos scored the winning goal after Ørjan Nyland’s mistake handed him a clean look at goal. The decision to trust Ramos over Ronaldo in that specific role looked justified by full time, with Portugal walking away from Oslo with all three points.

It’s the kind of result that gives Jesus even more confidence in his squad depth, showing that Portugal doesn’t have to lean solely on Ronaldo to get results even in tough away fixtures against quality opposition like Norway.

What’s next for Portugal in Group A4

Jorge Jesus still has two more matches to navigate before this international break wraps up, with Denmark visiting on October 1 and a Norway rematch following on October 4.

The group picture resumes in November, when Portugal hosts Denmark on the 14th before traveling to face Wales on the 17th to close out the league phase. Sitting on six points after two matchdays, Portugal already has some breathing room to work with as it heads toward the business end of the group.

Match Overview

Inter Miami travel to Ohio aiming for a victory to narrow the gap at the top of the Eastern Conference standings. Currently sitting 3rd in the East with 46 points (12-4-10), the Herons enter Matchday 28 on a five-match domestic unbeaten run, though they must navigate squad rotation with multiple players away on international duty.

As for the Columbus Crew, they are in urgent need of three points on home soil to keep their playoff hopes alive. Sitting 14th in the Eastern Conference with 26 points (7-5-14), the Crew remain seven points back of the final postseason line with only eight regular-season games remaining. Coming off a 2-0 victory against CF Montreal, Laurent Courtois’ squad must put together a run to make late-season ground.

Columbus Crew vs Inter Miami Record

Across 12 all-time meetings in all competitions, Inter Miami holds the head-to-head advantage over Columbus Crew with 7 wins to the Crew’s 3, alongside 2 draws. Matches between these two Eastern Conference sides are historically high-scoring, featuring 3 or more total goals in 7 of their last 8 MLS clashes.

The teams previously met earlier in the 2026 season on August 1 at Nu Stadium, resulting in a 2-2 draw where Brais Méndez scored an 83rd-minute equalizer for Columbus after Luis Suárez and Noah Allen scored for Miami. Inter Miami has also fared well on the road in Ohio, winning 3 of their last 4 visits to ScottsMiracle-Gro Field.

Summary

• Inter Miami will face the Columbus Crew on Sunday, September 27, for Matchday 28 of the 2026 MLS season.
• Apple TV will exclusively stream the game between Inter Miami and the Columbus Crew.
• Inter Miami enter this game with 46 points, sitting third in the Eastern Conference standings.
• The Columbus Crew hold the 14th position in the Eastern Conference standings with 26 points, currently outside of playoffs.

There’s no injury or fitness concern behind the call, with the decision described as purely tactical. Jorge Jesus simply believes he has a better option to start than Ronaldo, who has gone scoreless in his last two appearances for Portugal, and has moved Goncalo Ramos into the striker role in his place.

At the same time, the timing lines up with Portugal facing four matches during this extended international break, giving Jesus a reasonable case for resting the 41-year-old even in a high-profile fixture like this one.

Jesus has managed Ronaldo for years at Al Nassr, and that experience likely plays into knowing when the veteran could benefit from a breather, even if benching him against Haaland specifically comes as a shock.

Portugal’s remaining schedule

Ronaldo won’t have to wait long for another shot at Norway, with the two sides meeting again on October 4 on Portuguese soil after Portugal closes out this leg of the window against Denmark on October 1.

Beyond that, Portugal still has two more Group A4 matches left to play in November, hosting Denmark on November 14 before closing out the group stage away to Wales on November 17.

With four matches condensed into this stretch and two more still to come after the break, Jesus has plenty of opportunities to manage Ronaldo’s workload across the campaign without necessarily sacrificing results, provided Portugal navigates the group phase in solid shape before November arrives.

On Matchday 1, Germany secured a single point after a 1–1 draw with the Netherlands, where Jurgen Klopp’s side saw victory slip away in the final minutes.

As for Greece, they currently lead Group A2 after defeating Serbia 2–1 on the road. While a trip to Germany presents a tough test, securing a draw could be key to keeping their qualification hopes alive.

Germany’s confirmed lineup

Germany will be without midfielder Jamal Musiala for the Matchday 2 clash. Musiala suffered a thigh injury during warm-ups prior to the opening draw against the Netherlands and has returned to Bayern Munich to begin his recovery.

Germany’s confirmed starting lineup: Alexander Nübel; Nathaniel Brown, Josha Vagnoman, Jonathan Tah, Yann Aurel Bisseck; Joshua Kimmich, Felix Nmecha; Kevin Schade, Bambasé Conté, Karim Adeyemi; Younes Ebnoutalib.

Greece’s projected lineup

For Greece, manager Ivan Jovanovic will deploy a strong lineup led by striker Vangelis Pavlidis. The Benfica frontman delivered a key performance on Matchday 1, setting up the attack in Greece’s 2–1 away victory over Serbia.

Greece’s confirmed starting lineup: Konstantinos Tzolakis; Kostas Tsimikas, Panagiotis Retsos, Konstantinos Mavropanos, Georgios Vagiannidis; Christos Tzolis, Christos Zafeiris, Thanasis Androutsos, Konstantinos Karetsas; Andrews Tetteh, Vangelis Pavlidis.

Jesus revealed that Fernandes has actually been carrying pain for several matches now, an issue that traces back to a knock he suffered at United. “The Fernandes case involves treatment and recovery time. He’s coming off an injury at United, and he told me he’s been playing with that pain for the last three games, which is hindering him,” Jesus said.

The coach also acknowledged that Fernandes wasn’t at his best against Wales because of the issue, which factored into the decision to hold him out rather than risk making things worse. “I prefer not to risk it in this game so he’s fully fit for the Denmark match,” Jesus said, pointing to Portugal’s next fixture as the target for his return.

Fernandes isn’t expected to be sidelined for Manchester United unless the problem worsens, and Jesus’s comments suggest the plan is simply to manage his workload through this international window rather than treat it as a long-term concern.

Portugal’s remaining fixtures as Jesus eyes Fernandes’ return

Portugal‘s next assignment comes just days later against Denmark on October 1, the match Jesus has explicitly targeted for Fernandes’ return to the lineup, before a quick turnaround to face Norway again on October 4 to close out this international window.

How the captain responds to treatment over the coming days will determine whether that timeline holds, with the coach clearly prioritizing having him fully fit for the Denmark game over risking him on Sunday.

Manchester United, meanwhile, won’t see Fernandes back in action until the club’s next fixture against Tottenham Hotspur on October 10, meaning the club will be monitoring his recovery from afar throughout this entire international window.

Given how central Fernandes is to both club and country, any setback during Portugal’s remaining matches would carry direct consequences for United as they prepare for that Premier League clash.

Norway came from behind to beat Denmark 3-2 in its Nations League opener, with Erling Haaland scoring twice. Portugal, meanwhile, began its campaign with a 1-0 victory over Wales, Joao Felix providing the decisive goal in Jorge Jesus’ first competitive match in charge.

Stale Solbakken’s side made an impressive start to League A by recovering from a 2-0 deficit against Denmark. Oscar Bobb and Haaland put Norway ahead early before Denmark fought back, but Haaland struck again in the second half to secure all three points.

Haaland now has 64 international goals in 56 appearances for the Nordic side and will be the biggest attacking threat the Selecao das Qunhas must contain. Norway is also competing in League A for the first time after securing promotion from League B in the previous Nations League cycle.

The national team also impressed at the 2026 World Cup, reaching the quarter-finals before losing 2-1 to England after extra time. Norway has won 15 of its 25 Nations League matches, although Portugal represents a significant step up in opposition.

Portugal looks to build under Jorge Jesus

Portugal began the new era under Jesus with a narrow victory over Wales. Joao Felix scored the only goal, but the national team had several opportunities to extend its advantage, with Ronaldo also seeing a goal ruled out by VAR.

The nation was eliminated by eventual champion Spain in the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup, prompting Roberto Martinez’s departure and Jesus’ appointment. The new coach has retained most of the established players, including Ronaldo, as Portugal begins its defense of the Nations League title.

The national team has won the competition twice, in 2018-19 and 2024-25, making Portugal the most successful side in the tournament’s history. However, the trip to Oslo will provide a much tougher test than the opening victory over Wales.

So, is Cristiano Ronaldo playing against Norway?

Ronaldo’s involvement is one of the biggest lineup questions before kickoff, with Jesus refusing to guarantee that the captain will start. The coach had previously indicated that the final decision will depend on Ronaldo’s condition after training.

Asked whether Ronaldo could potentially fail to feature at all, Jesus explained that the forward could occupy several different roles depending on how he feels. Jesus said: “He will go into the match as the first, second, or third option; that’s all there is to it. I’ll see how Cristiano is tomorrow. He knows his body better than I do, given his long experience, and today’s training session will give him the indications he needs to speak with me afterwards.”

However, it has been confirmed that Ronaldo will begin this game on the bench, with Jesus placing considerable importance on the player’s own assessment of his physical condition. The 41-year-old superstar played approximately 65 minutes against Wales before being replaced.

Norway vs Portugal: Confirmed lineups

Norway confirmed XI (4-3-3): Nyland; Ryerson, Ajer, Heggem, Aursnes; Odegaard, Berge, Berg; Nusa, Haaland, Schjelderup.

Portugal confirmed XI (4-2-3-1): Diogo Costa; Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes; João Neves, Palhinha; Pedro Neto, Conceição, João Félix; Gonçalo Ramos.

Musiala never even made it to kickoff in Klopp’s first match in charge, a 1-1 draw against the Netherlands in Amsterdam, after clutching his thigh in the warm-up and being replaced in the starting lineup by Mainz’s Nadiem Amiri.

An MRI scan later confirmed the issue was a tear in Musiala’s right thigh, prompting the DFB to rule him out of the second Nations League fixture and send him back to his club for treatment.

Kai Havertz is also missing after being substituted off in the 30th minute of that same match with a separate muscular injury, meaning Klopp is now without two key attacking pieces for his second game in charge.

Wirtz and Burkardt called up to cover for the injured duo

Florian Wirtz and Jonathan Burkardt have been called up as replacements for Musiala and Havertz ahead of Sunday’s match. Wirtz steps in as a direct replacement for Musiala’s creative role, while Burkardt joins his Eintracht Frankfurt teammate Younes Ebnoutalib, who had already come on for Havertz during the Netherlands match.

The timing is far from ideal for Klopp, who is still searching for his first win as Germany coach after being held to a draw in his opener. Losing two attacking starters just one game into his tenure adds an extra challenge as he looks to build early momentum heading into Sunday’s match in Augsburg.

The pressure is mounting on Serbia coach Veljko Paunovic, who has managed just two wins in seven matches in charge and now has to navigate this fixture without key attacking pieces. Dusan Vlahovic and Mihailo Ivanovic are both sidelined, leaving Luka Jovic and Dusan Tadic to lead the line as an experienced front two in their absence.

There’s a different kind of energy surrounding the Netherlands, who enter this window with Barcelona legend Xavi now in charge after replacing Ronald Koeman. The move has generated plenty of excitement around the squad, and a win in Belgrade would go a long way toward validating the early optimism of this new era.

Both sides know a defeat here would put them in a difficult spot early in Group A2, making this an important measuring-stick match for two teams still trying to find their footing under new circumstances.

Confirmed lineup for Serbia

Paunovic will be leaning heavily on the experience of Jovic and Tadic up front given the absences of Vlahovic and Ivanovic. The rest of the lineup should stay largely settled as the coach looks to steady things after the disappointing finish against Greece.

Serbia confirmed starting XI: Milinkovic-Savic; Nedeljković, Babić, Pavlović, Terzić; Gudelj, Lukić; Zivkovic, Stanković Sergej; Joveljić.

Confirmed lineup for the Netherlands

Xavi will also have to make an adjustment up front, with Brian Brobbey ruled out through injury and Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee called up as a replacement for the Sunderland striker.

Netherlands confirmed starting XI: Verbruggen; Dumfries, van Hecke, van Dijk, van de Ven; Gravenberch, Veerman, Reijnders; Summerville, Meerdink, Gakpo .

The fixture comes after Canada’s historic run to the 2026 World Cup Round of 16, while Chile is beginning a rebuilding process after missing the tournament. The two national teams last met at the 2024 Copa America, playing out a 0-0 draw that helped Canada advance to the knockout stage.

The Reds will return to action hoping to build on their best-ever World Cup campaign. The national team reached the Round of 16 for the first time, although its tournament ended with a 3-0 defeat to Morocco.

Marsch’s side has three friendlies scheduled before entering the next CONCACAF Nations League campaign, where Canada is automatically through to the quarter-finals. The national team has also lost only once in its last eight matches on home soil, with that defeat coming against Switzerland at the World Cup.

BMO Field has generally been a difficult venue for visiting teams, with Canada’s last defeat there coming almost three years ago against Jamaica. Canada can also extend its unbeaten run against South American opposition to four matches, having beaten Venezuela 2-0 in November 2025 and drawn with Colombia and Ecuador late last year.

Chile is entering new era

Chile arrives in Toronto after missing a third consecutive World Cup, finishing at the bottom of CONMEBOL qualifying with only two wins from 18 matches. The national team has since begun rebuilding under Nicolas Cordova, who has overseen a more encouraging run of results.

Cordova’s side has lost only one of its last six internationals and has scored in five consecutive matches. The national team also defeated DR Congo 2-1 in June, while its recent attacking improvement has seen it score 10 goals across its last five games.

The visitors have also enjoyed success against teams from the CONCACAF region this decade, with their most recent meeting against Panama ending in a 5-0 victory in 2023. Chile is unbeaten in its last three meetings with Canada, including a 2-1 victory during the Canada Cup in Toronto in 1995.

Is Alphonso Davies playing for Canada?

The biggest team-news development concerns Alphonso Davies, who will not feature for Canada against Chile. The captain missed much of the World Cup because of injury and is now unavailable because he is taking a delayed honeymoon.

Canada will also be without first-choice World Cup goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau, who is unavailable for personal reasons. Derek Cornelius has suffered a lower-body injury, Jeevan Badwal is dealing with a hamstring problem, and Moise Bombito is recovering from tibia surgery.

Chile is also without its most recognizable recent star, as Alexis Sanchez was left out of the squad during the national team’s generational overhaul. Five Chilean players could make their senior debuts, while Ben Brereton Diaz arrives as the highest-scoring Chilean selected for the window with 10 international goals.

Canada vs Chile: Confirmed lineups

Saturday’s friendly carries significance beyond the result, with both national teams using the match to develop their squads for the next international cycle. Canada is trying to maintain the momentum generated by its historic World Cup campaign, while Chile is attempting to rebuild after a difficult qualifying period.

Canada confirmed XI (4-4-2): St. Clair; Sigur, De Fougerolles, Priso, Laryea; Saliba, Choinière, Buchanan, Shaffelburg; J. David, Larin.

Chile confirmed XI (4-2-3-1): Vigouroux; Faúndez, Villagra, Román, Suazo; Pizarro, Marcelino; Osorio, Pérez, Cepeda; Tapia.

Summary

• Mexico will face Colombia on Saturday, September 26, for an International friendly game.
• DirectTV will stream the game between Mexico and Colombia.
• Colombia hold a slight edge over Mexico with 11 wins against El Tri’s 10.

The AFA confirmed that talks have begun between president Claudio Tapia and Scaloni over extending his contract, sharing the news alongside a photo of the two together at Argentina’s training facility in Ezeiza.

“Talks have begun between AFA president Claudio Tapia and national team coach Lionel Scaloni regarding the renewal of his contract in charge of the Albiceleste squad,” the federation’s official account posted.

Speaking earlier in the week, before the meeting was officially confirmed, Scaloni revealed that a planned sit-down with Tapia had already been delayed once by an unexpected dentist appointment.

“As for my situation, there’s no news yet. I’ll meet with the president in the coming days. Yesterday we were supposed to meet, but I had a problem, I had to go to the dentist and we couldn’t. Today he’s in Paraguay, we’ll talk,” Scaloni said at the time, adding that there were still several matters the two needed to discuss in person before anything could be decided.

A two-year offer on the table

The update comes after reports that the AFA had reportedly tabled a two-year proposal with an option to extend through the 2030 World Cup, reflecting the federation’s confidence in tying down the coach who delivered Argentina’s third World Cup title and three major trophies in as many years.

Scaloni acknowledged that the emotional toll of losing this year’s World Cup final to Spain played into his hesitation to commit right away, saying the blow of falling short of another title “hit hard” even with the tranquility he’s found since.

Despite that disappointment, Scaloni made clear he still considers the Argentina job “a dream place” to be, and the coach’s willingness to keep discussing terms suggests the door remains very much open for an extension.

With the World Cup final loss now processed and Lionel Messi’s farewell window approaching, both sides appear motivated to get a new agreement finalized before his current deal expires in December.

Ronaldo has continued to rewrite the record books with Portugal well into his 40s, but Norway represents an unusual gap in his otherwise extensive list of opponents. The upcoming meeting with Erling Haaland’s national team could therefore carry an extra layer of significance for the 41-year-old forward.

As of late September 2026, Ronaldo has scored 146 international goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, with those goals coming against 49 different national teams. His scoring record stretches across opponents from UEFA, CAF, AFC, CONMEBOL, CONCACAF and OFC, underlining the extraordinary breadth of his international career.

Luxembourg is Ronaldo’s most frequent international opponent to score against, with 11 goals, followed by Hungary with nine, while Armenia, Lithuania and Sweden have each conceded seven times. Uzbekistan became the 49th different national team on his scoring list when he scored twice in Portugal’s 5-0 World Cup group-stage victory earlier in 2026. Yet there is one notable omission from that list.

Another milestone just one goal away for Ronaldo

Ronaldo has never scored against Norway, despite having faced the national team previously. His meetings with the Norwegians include Euro 2012 qualifying matches and a 3-0 Portugal victory in a 2016 friendly, but the Portugal captain failed to find the net in either encounter.

That means a goal in the upcoming Nations League fixture would make Norway the 50th different national team Ronaldo has scored against, extending his world record for scoring against the most unique international opponents. It would be another remarkable addition to a record that already includes the most international goals in men’s soccer.

The milestone also highlights the longevity behind Ronaldo’s numbers. A career spanning more than two decades has given him opportunities to face an enormous variety of opponents through European Championship and World Cup qualifying, major tournaments and the Nations League.

Will Ronaldo play against Norway?

While the potential record is clear, there is still uncertainty over exactly how much involvement Ronaldo will have against Norway. Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has left open the possibility that the captain could start, come off the bench or have a more limited role, with the final decision dependent on his condition after training.

When asked whether Ronaldo could potentially fail to feature at all, Jesus explained that the veteran would remain one of his options depending on how he felt before the match: “He will go into the match as the first, second, or third option; that’s all there is to it. I’ll see how Cristiano is tomorrow.

“He knows his body better than I do, given his long experience, and today’s training session will give him the indications he needs to speak with me afterwards.”, he added. “But I think tomorrow I’ll see him. I’ve already spoken to him today. He played 65 minutes, and I’ll see how he is, whether I start him or whether he goes to the bench and has more time to be ready for the Norway game.”

The comments underline the careful approach being taken with Ronaldo during the international window. Portugal is balancing the importance of its captain with the physical demands of asking a 41-year-old forward to play multiple matches in a short period.

Jesus already managing Ronaldo’s workload

Ronaldo started Portugal’s 1-0 victory over Wales in Lisbon and played around 65 minutes before being substituted. He was involved in much of Portugal’s attacking work, with the national team registering 15 shots inside the box and Ronaldo contributing to seven of those attempts.

Jesus has acknowledged that Ronaldo’s workload needs to be managed differently from that of younger players. The Portugal coach said: “The Cris, whether we like it or not, is not Joao Neves, who is 20 years old and can play two games in three days.”

WHO: Canada vs Chile
WHAT: International Friendly
WHEN: 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT • Saturday, September 26, 2026
WHERE: Fubo
STREAM: WATCH NOW

Match Overview

Coming off a historic run at the 2026 World Cup, Canada returns to action in front of a home crowd in Toronto. After reaching the knockout stage for the first time ever, manager Jesse Marsch is tasked with building on that momentum and proving his squad belongs among the world’s elite. This friendly serves as the first step in a new cycle, making a statement win a top priority.

For Chile, this match represents another step in a challenging rebuilding process. After failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, the national team is in a period of transition under manager Nicolás Córdova. Facing a confident Canadian side on the road provides a crucial test for a new generation of players looking to restore the nation’s former glory.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

The two nations enter this friendly on starkly different trajectories. Canada is riding a wave of confidence after co-hosting a successful tournament and securing its first-ever World Cup victory. The national mood is optimistic, with the team looking to solidify its gains. In contrast, Chile is navigating a delicate period, attempting to integrate new talent while moving on from the golden generation that delivered so much success.

The tactical battle will likely pit Canada’s high-energy, vertical style against Chile’s more compact and cautious approach. Jesse Marsch is known for implementing aggressive, transition-based systems, and his team will look to use its speed to disrupt the Chilean backline. Chile, meanwhile, will likely focus on defensive organization and aim to frustrate the hosts, picking their moments to counter-attack.

Motivation will be high on both sides, albeit for different reasons. Canada has the pressure of performing for its home fans and validating its recent success on the global stage. For Chile, every match is an opportunity for its emerging players to prove their worth and fight for a permanent spot in the squad as the team builds toward future competitive tournaments.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, there is almost nothing to separate these two teams, primarily because they have only met twice before. Neither nation has managed to claim a victory, with both previous encounters ending in a draw. This fixture remains a rare and unpredictable matchup in international soccer.

Their most recent meeting was a tense, goalless draw during the group stage of the 2024 Copa América. While the scoreline was even, Canada was arguably the better side, creating more significant scoring opportunities and finishing the match with a substantially higher expected goals (xG) tally. That result ultimately helped Canada advance while eliminating Chile.

While the head-to-head history suggests a low-scoring affair, Chile’s recent form tells a different story. Their last seven matches have been packed with goals, with both teams scoring in six of those contests. This trend of high-scoring games contrasts sharply with their cagey 0-0 draw against Canada in 2024, adding an element of intrigue to this friendly.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Canada will be without several key players from its World Cup squad, forcing Jesse Marsch to test his team’s depth, while Chile continues to integrate fresh faces into its setup.

The most significant absence for Canada is captain and superstar Alphonso Davies, who is unavailable for this international window. The hosts will also be missing crucial defenders Alistair Johnston and Moïse Bombito, as well as midfielder Ismaël Koné, due to injuries. However, the squad sees the return of veterans Junior Hoilett and Samuel Piette, who missed out on the World Cup.

Chile’s manager Nicolás Córdova continues his youth movement, even bringing along several youngsters as non-playing ‘guests’ to gain experience with the senior team. The squad will be without Thomas Gillier, Ian Garguez, and Alexander Aravena due to injuries, opening the door for others to make their case for a regular spot in the starting eleven.

Canada Projected XI (4-4-2):
St. Clair; Laryea, Jones, De Fougerolles, Cornelius; Saliba, Eustaquio, Sigur, Buchanan; Oluwaseyi, David.
This 4-4-2 formation provides a balanced and solid structure, allowing Canada’s two forwards to work in tandem. The key player to watch is Jonathan David, who has been in excellent scoring form for his club, Atletico Madrid, and will be expected to lead the line and provide the main goal threat for the home side.

Chile Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Vigouroux; Suazo, Villagra, Salinas, Faundez; Pizarro, Mendez; Cepeda, Reichmuth, Osorio; Tapia.
Chile is expected to line up in a formation that prioritizes defensive stability with a two-man midfield shield. This setup allows the attacking trio behind the striker to support on the counter-attack. Much of their offensive potential will depend on the creativity of players like Darío Osorio to unlock the Canadian defense.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the Canada vs Chile on Fubo. The service is accessible on a wide range of devices, including computers, smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs such as Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV.

In addition to this international friendly, a subscription to Fubo gives you access to a host of other top soccer competitions. You can watch leagues and tournaments such as LaLiga, Bundesliga, and the UEFA Champions League, providing a comprehensive package for soccer fans.

A subscription to the service costs $14.99 per month. This plan offers a wide variety of live sports, ensuring you can follow your favorite teams and players throughout the season without needing multiple subscriptions.

SEE MORE: Complete guide to watching international soccer on US TV.

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.

James Trafford, the Leeds United goalkeeper, will start in Pickford‘s place, with Tuchel opting for the change due to tactical considerations rather than any injury concern.

The decision signals that the manager is beginning to introduce some fresh faces into his setup in this post-World Cup era, even with a proven veteran available to him.

It remains to be seen whether Pickford will get minutes off the bench today or simply has to wait for another fixture to reclaim his starting spot, with Tuchel using this window to evaluate whether Trafford is ready to eventually take over the role.

A modern England legend now watching from the bench

Pickford was one of England’s standout performers at the 2026 World Cup and remains one of the most accomplished goalkeepers in the nation’s history, with 91 caps and 46 clean sheets that place him second only to Peter Shilton among English goalkeepers in international appearances.

His resume includes breaking England’s penalty shootout curse at the 2018 World Cup and starting in back-to-back European Championship finals, making this benching a notable moment rather than a routine rotation.

At 32, Pickford is still very much in his prime and has shown no signs of decline in either club or international form, which makes Tuchel’s decision less about performance and more about managing competition for places heading into a new cycle.

The Barcelona winger enters this window in good form, and all signs point to him starting rather than being eased back in gradually. Luis De la Fuente addressed the question directly when unveiling his squad, calling the decision to include Yamal “obvious” and pointing to his recent Champions League form as further proof of where he’s at physically after a standout World Cup campaign in which he featured in every match for Spain.

Spain will be looking to bounce back from last year’s Nations League final defeat to Portugal, using the World Cup title they lifted this summer as a springboard for a strong start away from home.

Both teams enter this Nations League A3 group alongside Croatia and Czechia, with the opening matchday setting an early tone for who controls the group heading into October.

Confirmed lineup for England

Thomas Tuchel is dealing with a heavily depleted squad, with Declan Rice, Cole Palmer, Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo and Tino Livramento all withdrawing through injury, while John Stones, Reece James and Djed Spence are also missing at the back.

England confirmed starting XI: James Trafford; Jarell Quansah, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Nico O’Reilly; Elliot Anderson, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon; Harry Kane.

Confirmed lineup for Spain

Spain will be without four members of last summer’s World Cup-winning squad: goalkeeper Joan Garcia, sidelined by a knee injury; Gavi, suspended following his World Cup final altercation with Argentina’s Leandro Paredes; and right-back Marcos Llorente and forward Borja Iglesias, who both retired from the national team after lifting the trophy.

Spain confirmed starting XI: Unai Simon; Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri, Fabian Ruiz; Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Nico Williams; Ferran Torres.

Canada is beginning a new international cycle after reaching the World Cup Round of 16 for the first time, while Chile is rebuilding after failing to qualify for the tournament. The two national teams last met at the 2024 Copa America, playing out a goalless draw.

The Reds enter the friendly looking to build on an historic tournament, despite being eliminated by Morocco in the last 16. The national team had previously never progressed beyond the World Cup group stage, making its run particularly significant.

Jesse Marsch’s side has three friendlies scheduled during this period, with matches against Chile, Peru and the United States providing opportunities to assess the squad ahead of the next CONCACAF Nations League campaign. Canada has also been difficult to beat at home, losing only once in its last eight international matches on Canadian soil.

Chile arrives with a very different objective after finishing bottom of the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying standings. The national team managed only two wins from 18 qualifying matches, but its form has improved under Nicolas Cordova, with five victories in its last seven matches across all competitions according to the supplied data.

So, why is Alphonso Davies not playing?

The reason for Davies’ absence is ultimately a personal one rather than another injury setback. Canada has granted its captain permission to miss the three upcoming friendlies against Chile, Peru and the United States so he can take his postponed honeymoon.

Davies was unable to properly enjoy his honeymoon after his wedding because of his football commitments, and Marsch agreed that this international window represented a suitable opportunity for him to take the break. The decision also allows the Bayern Munich defender to continue managing his workload after an extremely demanding period.

Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen has welcomed the arrangement, with the German club supporting the decision to release Davies from international duty. Marsch had reportedly considered the possibility of Davies joining the squad later in the window but ultimately decided that giving his captain additional time away from competitive football was the better option.

Davies finding form again at Bayern after difficult 18 months

The timing of the break is particularly relevant because Davies has spent much of the past year and a half working his way back from several injuries. He suffered a torn ACL in March 2025, which kept him out until shortly before Christmas, before subsequent muscular problems and a thigh injury further disrupted his progress.

That latest injury affected his involvement at the 2026 World Cup. Davies missed Canada’s entire group stage and made only a brief substitute appearance against South Africa before remaining on the bench for the 3-0 defeat to Morocco in the last 16.

The 25-year-old has since enjoyed a more encouraging start to the 2026-27 campaign with Bayern. He made three starts and three substitute appearances in the club’s first six competitive matches, gradually building his minutes and regaining confidence.

Davies’ recent performances suggest that his recovery is moving in the right direction. He scored during Bayern’s 5-0 Champions League victory over Bodo/Glimt before producing two assists in a 7-0 Bundesliga win over Union Berlin.

The United States is beginning a new cycle at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando, while Peru is also rebuilding after failing to qualify for the World Cup. With several established American players missing, Mauricio Pochettino has a chance to assess a much younger group before the national team faces Chile, Mexico and Canada.

The 28-year-old is far from the only established American player absent from the squad. Weston McKennie and Folarin Balogun were also left out, while Ricardo Pepi withdrew after suffering an injury with PSV. The result is a markedly different squad from the one that represented the United States at the World Cup.

The USMNT enters the match after a 4-1 defeat to Belgium in the World Cup round of 16, while Pochettino has remained in charge after signing a new contract through 2030. The national team has also lost three of its last four friendlies, making the Peru match an opportunity to begin the next cycle with a different group and approach.

Why is Christian Pulisic not playing against Peru?

Pulisic was left out of Pochettino‘s 28-player squad for the September and October international window. The decision comes after the forward suffered an injury during the World Cup and subsequently spent time building his fitness, although he had returned to action for Milan before the international break.

Pochettino has indicated that the decision is part of his approach to evaluating the squad at the beginning of a new cycle. The United States coach told reporters: “The 28 players that are going to be involved in these four games, for different circumstances, are the best players we want to see and we want to work with, and that’s it.”

The manager also made clear that he did not want the first camp of the new cycle to become a discussion about individual omissions. Pochettino added: “There is no point now in the first camp of this new cycle to start to explain why one player [is on the roster] and not another. Because if not, maybe we will spend an hour here.”

Pulisic still in search of rhythm after World Cup injury

Pulisic’s absence is also connected to his fitness after the injury that disrupted his 2026 World Cup campaign. Reports have described the problem as a leg microfracture, with the forward gradually increasing his workload and minutes as he returned to action with Milan. The 28-year-old initially remained an unused substitute in Milan’s first three Serie A matches of the season before featuring in the club’s following games.

He then scored his first goal of the season in a 3-0 victory over Lecce on September 20, showing that his club comeback was progressing. That return, however, did not lead to an immediate recall by Pochettino. The decision gives Pulisic additional time to continue his recovery while the United States manager assesses players who are being introduced into the national team setup.

Pulisic remains an important part of the United States’ long-term plans, having collected 90 international caps and 33 goals. His absence against Peru therefore represents a temporary change in Pochettino’s selection rather than an indication that the Milan forward has been removed from the national team’s future plans.

Palmer is one of several notable absentees for England, with Declan Rice, Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo and Tino Livramento also withdrawing from the squad. His absence comes at an important moment for the 24-year-old, who is trying to establish himself under Tuchel after missing the 2026 World Cup.

Palmer had been brought back into the England setup after starting the new season strongly with Chelsea. He had registered two goals and two assists in his first five Premier League appearances, giving him an opportunity to make an impression on Tuchel ahead of the Nations League campaign.

The Chelsea forward has, however, endured a frustrating international period since Tuchel took charge. Palmer has made only three appearances for the Three Lions under the German coach, while his latest withdrawal represents another missed chance to work directly with the new manager.

Tuchel has previously emphasized that places in his England squad will be determined by what he sees from players in camp. With the 24-year-old forward unavailable again, other attacking players now have an opportunity to strengthen their own claims.

The reason behind Palmer’s absence

Palmer’s withdrawal is linked to a persistent physical problem that has caused pain and discomfort, rather than a decision to manage his workload simply because of the international schedule. Chelsea has not publicly disclosed the precise nature of the issue, although it has been described in reports as a small muscle injury.

Tuchel explained that Palmer was unable to compete at the required level because of the discomfort. “My understanding is that he plays with discomfort and pain, and he cannot compete on the highest level with discomfort and pain, so he withdrew and informed us, and Chelsea informed us,” Tuchel said.

The England manager also rejected the idea that Palmer’s absence was simply part of load management. “We are not managing load,” he added, stressing that the Nations League represents a competitive period in which he expects his players to be fully involved with the national team.

Tuchel calls it another missed opportunity

While Tuchel accepted that Palmer’s withdrawal was injury-related, he made clear that the repeated absences are becoming significant from an international perspective. The Chelsea star’s latest withdrawal is reportedly his fourth from an England squad, and Tuchel believes every missed camp makes it harder for Palmer to demonstrate what he can offer.

“For sure, it’s a missed opportunity,” Tuchel said. “It’s another missed opportunity. He misses too many opportunities. I don’t blame him for it, it’s just a fact. He misses way too many camps with injuries and I only want to rely on what I personally witness and see within my team.”

The manager added that players need to be present in camp to take advantage of the opportunities available to them. “If you are not in camp, there is the next level of impression that you cannot achieve, because you can only do it with me on the pitch and with us on the pitch,” he said.

Spain presents huge opening test

The fixture is also England’s first meeting with Spain since the Euro 2024 final, when La Roja won 2-1 in Berlin through goals from Nico Williams and Mikel Oyarzabal. Tuchel therefore faces an immediate test against a team that has retained much of the squad that lifted the World Cup.

Spain has also conceded only one goal during its 2026 World Cup campaign, underlining the challenge England faces without Palmer. The hosts will instead have to rely on their other attacking options to create openings against a defense that has proved exceptionally difficult to break down.

“I said thank you for everything you gave football. I don’t do things to look nice for the photo; that came from inside,” Yamal said. The comment reflects how deliberately he’s handled his relationship with Messi’s legacy throughout his career, choosing his words in that moment rather than simply playing along for the cameras.

The embrace has since been framed as a symbolic passing of the torch in Argentine and Spanish football circles alike, made all the more fitting given both players came through Barcelona’s academy, and Yamal’s comments make clear the gesture was as genuine as it looked.

It came just moments after Yamal became the youngest player ever to win both a European Championship and a World Cup, a distinction that not even Messi, Diego Maradona or Cristiano Ronaldo can claim at the same age.

With Spain now the reigning world champions and Yamal established as one of the sport’s brightest young stars, the image of the two together is likely to remain one of the defining snapshots of this World Cup cycle.

The moment also underscored how much Yamal’s relationship with Messi has meant to him throughout his rise, long before either of them shared a pitch together at the highest level.

Yamal about his old photo with Messi as a baby

Yamal also revealed the story behind an old photo of Messi bathing him as a baby, an image his family has had for years but only recently made public. His father had wanted to post it long ago, but Yamal asked him to hold off.

“Because I told him not to,” Yamal said, explaining that he didn’t want easy comparisons to Messi shaping how people saw him before he had built his own name in the sport.

“I wanted to be Lamine; I didn’t want to be Messi. I just wanted to get where I could get. I asked him to wait. When I’m Lamine, do what you want,” Yamal said. That patience shaped how Yamal approached his early career, wanting to be judged on his own merits rather than framed from childhood as Messi’s successor.

The head coach addressed the question directly ahead of the team’s upcoming friendlies, closing the book on one of the most symbolic decisions of this new era for the world champions.

Cristian “Cuti” Romero will be Argentina‘s new captain, Scaloni confirmed. “The captain is going to be Cuti. He was already the third captain after Leo (Messi) and Ota (Nicolas Otamendi). There’s Emiliano (Martinez), who can also wear the armband. Rodrigo (De Paul), who won’t be here for these two matches, can also wear it, Lautaro (Martinez) can wear it. Cuti is the right man,” Scaloni said.

The Tottenham defender was already Argentina’s third captain in the pecking order behind Messi and Nicolas Otamendi, so Scaloni’s decision effectively promotes him rather than starting from scratch.

The coach was also careful to note that the armband won’t be exclusive to Romero on a night-to-night basis, pointing to Emiliano Martinez, Rodrigo De Paul and Lautaro Martinez as players who can also captain the side depending on the lineup and circumstances of each match.

Argentina’s fixture list builds toward Messi’s emotional farewell

Argentina open this window with a pair of friendlies that won’t feature Messi at all, facing Bolivia in Cordoba on September 30 and Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires on October 3, before the captain returns solely for his farewell appearance against Benin on October 6 at the Monumental. It will be Messi’s 208th and final cap for the national team, closing out a 21-year international career that included Argentina’s run to the 2026 World Cup final.

The Benin match figures to be as much a celebration of Messi’s career as a competitive fixture, with the Monumental expected to give its captain a send-off worthy of Argentina’s all-time leading scorer with 125 goals.

“Unfortunately, it’s not looking good. I think he will have to return to Madrid. We are not going to take any risks. He has a knee hyperextension from the impact. This is not encouraging. We are not going to take any risks,” Zidane said on TF1.

Mbappe had given France the lead in the 54th minute, finishing off a pass from Michael Olise, but the celebration quickly turned to concern as he stayed down clutching his left knee. He tried to play on but was clearly compromised, and Zidane opted to withdraw him in the 59th minute rather than risk further damage, sending on Desire Doue in his place.

Zidane‘s blunt assessment leaves little doubt that France are bracing for bad news once Mbappe undergoes medical tests, with the captain leaving the camp and set to travel back to Madrid for further evaluation.

The timing could hardly be worse for Zidane, who is already navigating a squad thinned out by Ibrahima Konate’s training injury and the precautionary omissions of Aurelien Tchouameni and Marcus Thuram.

France face a crucial run of fixtures without their captain

Zidane will have to navigate France’s next stretch of matches without Mbappe, who is already leaving the camp and heading back to Madrid for further evaluation, with a trip to face Belgium on September 28 just three days after the Turkiye win.

That match kicks off a run that also includes France vs Italy on October 2 and a rematch with Belgium on October 5, all inside the same international window, meaning Les Bleus will have to get through this entire block without their captain.

The captain scored in the 54th minute, finishing from the center of the box after a pass from Michael Olise, only to be replaced by Desire Doue in the 59th minute of the UEFA Nations League A Group 1 clash in Kocaeli.

Mbappe stayed rooted to the spot right after his goal instead of celebrating with the rest of the squad, with his teammates coming over to check on him as he grabbed at his left knee in visible pain.

He remained on his feet initially, but the discomfort was clear enough that the France bench began preparing a change well before he was officially withdrawn.

Mbappe is expected to undergo medical examinations later on to determine the full extent of the issue, with France holding out hope that the diagnosis comes back clean enough to keep their captain available for the remainder of the Nations League window.

Zidane already dealing with a squad hit by absences

Losing Mbappe to injury is a fresh blow for Zidane just days into his first spell in charge of France, after his squad had already been thinned out before a ball was even kicked.

Ibrahima Konate was forced to withdraw from the group in training this week after feeling pain in his right knee, with Leny Yoro drafted in as a replacement and handed his first senior call-up.

Zidane had also opted to leave out both Aurelien Tchouameni and Marcus Thuram as a precaution when he named his squad, choosing not to risk two players still working their way back from fitness issues.

Zidane will be desperate for good news regarding Mbappe, given how thin his options already look on paper. The coming hours should make clear whether this is a scare France can shrug off or another setback in a camp that has already had more than its share.

Haaland scored twice as Norway defeated Denmark 3-2, recovering from a two-goal lead being cancelled out to secure three points. The result also gave the national team its first competitive victory over Denmark, with Haaland delivering the decisive moment when his country needed him most.

Norway made a fast start when Oscar Bobb opened the scoring in the 14th minute, before Haaland doubled the advantage four minutes later. Antonio Nusa drove into the penalty area and slipped a pass toward the striker, who produced a typically clinical finish through the goalkeeper’s legs.

Denmark fought back through Mikkel Damsgaard and Rasmus Hojlund, turning what had looked like a comfortable Norwegian victory into a tense contest. Haaland, however, had the final say in the 74th minute, finishing from a short-corner routine to restore Norway’s lead and seal the victory.

The performance continued a remarkable run of international form for the 26-year-old. Haaland had already established himself as Norway’s leading scorer, but his latest brace moved him into another historic position.

Haaland leaves Ronaldo Nazario and Ibrahimovic behind

The milestone arrived with Haaland reaching 64 goals in 56 appearances for Norway, taking his international scoring rate beyond 1.1 goals per game. That figure means he has now moved ahead of both Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario and Sweden icon Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who each finished their international careers with 62 goals.

Manchester City’s star needed only 56 matches to reach a total that took Ronaldo 98 appearances and Ibrahimovic 122. His latest achievement therefore stands out as much for the speed with which he has reached the mark as it does for the names he has overtaken. Sweden’s Lotta Schelin remains the overall Nordic international record-holder with 88 goals, although that record comes from the women’s game.

Haaland now turns his attention to Cristiano Ronaldo

The record arrives at the perfect time for Haaland, with Norway’s next Nations League match against Portugal. That means the Manchester City striker will come up against Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portugal captain who has built one of the greatest international goalscoring records in soccer history.

Haaland enters the meeting with 64 goals in 56 international appearances, while Ronaldo remains the all-time leading scorer in men’s international soccer with 146 goals. The Norwegian’s latest achievement gives the upcoming clash another intriguing storyline, with two generations of elite goalscorers set to share the pitch.

Norway will also face Wales on October 1, while Denmark will have an opportunity to respond when it hosts Norway in the final Nations League group-stage match on November 17. For Haaland, however, the immediate focus is Portugal and another opportunity to extend a record that is already moving at extraordinary speed.

Messi is one of the 30 nominees for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, with the ceremony scheduled for October 26 in London. The Argentina captain faces competition from the likes of Ousmane Dembele, Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal, Harry Kane, Erling Haaland and Rodri as he looks to add another remarkable chapter to his individual legacy.

Messi’s nomination comes after another impressive campaign at the age of 39. The Inter Miami forward helped the club to an MLS Cup triumph while continuing to produce goals and assists, before carrying his influence onto the international stage with La Albiceleste.

His performances at the 2026 World Cup further strengthened his case, with reports crediting him with eight goals and four assists as Argentina reached the final. The 39-year-old’s participation among the candidates has been especially noteworthy, given he continues to be one of the tournament’s most prominent players at his age.

France Football has now placed Messi on the final shortlist alongside several of the biggest stars in world soccer. He is also one of the few nominees playing outside Europe, adding another dimension to the debate surrounding his chances.

Scaloni reveals Messi’s attitude toward the award

Despite believing Messi deserves another Ballon d’Or, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni suggested that the award itself is no longer something that occupies his captain’s thoughts. His comments offer an insight into the mindset of a player who has already collected the prize eight times. “I think Messi deserves the Ballon d’Or, of course, he does. But I don’t think he’s too worried about it,” Scaloni told reporters on Thursday.

The Argentina coach continued: “I don’t think it concerns him much. As long as he’s on a soccer pitch, it’s hard to say he doesn’t deserve it. I don’t think he’s worried about it, but we’ll see what happens.”

The comments suggest that, from Scaloni’s perspective, Messi’s motivation remains rooted primarily in playing soccer rather than adding another individual award to his collection. After everything he has achieved throughout his career, the Ballon d’Or may carry less importance for the Argentine than it once did.

Competitive Ballon d’Or race

Messi’s nomination has attracted support from several prominent figures in soccer. His performances for Inter Miami and Argentina have been cited by teammates and coaches as reasons why he remains worthy of consideration despite playing his club soccer in Major League Soccer.

The competition is also substantial, with Dembele, Mbappe, Yamal, Kane, Haaland and Rodri among the other nominees. The voting process will ultimately determine whether Messi adds a ninth Ballon d’Or to his record collection.

Scaloni’s comments come during an emotional period for Messi and Argentina. The Inter Miami star is set to say goodbye to the national team in front of his home supporters when Argentina faces Benin on October 6 at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.

The hosts arrive in rebuilding mode after missing out on a third straight World Cup, falling to Bosnia-Herzegovina on penalties in the playoffs. That failure cost Gennaro Gattuso his job, and after a brief interim spell and a fallback plan that saw Andrea Pirlo pass on the role, the federation turned back to Mancini, who returns to the Azzurri bench three years after leaving for Saudi Arabia.

Belgium, meanwhile, arrive under new management despite a solid showing at the World Cup, where Rudi Garcia’s side reached the quarterfinals before falling to eventual champions Spain.

Van Bommel takes over with Kevin De Bruyne and record scorer Romelu Lukaku still central to the squad, though the Red Devils will be without Thibaut Courtois, who is stepping away from the Nations League entirely, along with the retired Axel Witsel.

Italy confirmed lineup

Mancini named his first squad since returning for a second spell without Alessandro Bastoni, who is suspended, while Federico Dimarco, Bryan Cristante, and Manuel Locatelli are all sidelined through injury. Mateo Retegui wasn’t called up either, leaving Moise Kean to lead the line.

Italy confirmed starting XI: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Mancini, Coppola, Calafiori; Tonali, Romano, Barella; Cambiaghi, F.P. Esposito, Kean.

Belgium confirmed lineup

Van Bommel is without Thibaut Courtois along with retired defender Axel Witsel. Amadou Onana remains out with the long-term injury he picked up at the World Cup, and Leandro Trossard and Jeremy Doku were both left out as well.

Belgium confirmed starting XI: Lammens; Castagne, Mechele, Ngoy, De Cuyper; Raskin, Tielemans, De Bruyne; Godts, Moreira, De Ketelaere.

The decision, confirmed in the mixed zone after Real Madrid’s 2-1 Champions League win over Inter Milan, means Courtois won’t feature even if Belgium reach the Final Four, unless the coaching staff is left with no other options in goal.

“No, I’m not going to play any Nations League matches, not even the Final Four, unless the coach needs me because there are too many injuries,” he said. The move is voluntary rather than a retirement, with Courtois looking to manage his physical workload after a demanding stretch at club level.

His current Real Madrid contract runs through June 2027, and the club is reportedly working on extending it by another year, a priority the goalkeeper is clearly weighing above his international commitments for now.

Courtois’ last appearance for the national team came in the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup against Spain, a match in which he was forced off with an injury as Belgium were eliminated from the tournament.

Courtois eyes a return in time for Euro 2028

Courtois hasn’t closed the door on a return, though, with his sights set on Belgium’s Euro 2028 qualifying campaign beginning in March 2027. New coach Mark van Bommel accepted the decision but made clear that stepping away doesn’t guarantee Courtois his starting spot back, with Senne Lammens pushing for a long-term opportunity between the posts. “Van Bommel replied that he couldn’t guarantee me the starting spot. However, I want to fight for my place,” Courtois said.

That competition for the No. 1 jersey is likely to intensify while Courtois is away, with Lammens set to get an extended run of starts across Belgium’s Nations League campaign to stake his claim.

Euro 2028, co-hosted by the United Kingdom and Ireland, gives Courtois a clear target to work back toward, but by his own admission, reclaiming the starting role will require winning the battle with Lammens rather than simply picking up where he left off.

The change comes after Neymar’s international retirement following the 2026 World Cup, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable period in which the former Santos, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star made the No. 10 his own. Now, Raphinha has the opportunity to create his own legacy in a shirt that carries enormous expectations.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed its updated squad numbers ahead of the national team’s upcoming friendlies against Australia and India. Barcelona’s captain has been assigned the No. 10 shirt, while Endrick takes over the No. 9 previously worn by Matheus Cunha.

Raphinha is no stranger to the number, having previously worn it during Brazil‘s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign when Neymar was unavailable. At the World Cup itself, however, Raphinha wore No. 11, meaning the latest decision represents a permanent elevation in the new international cycle.

The change also comes as Ancelotti reshapes Brazil following its World Cup campaign. Estevao moves into No. 11, Vinicius Junior retains No. 7, Bruno Guimarães keeps No. 8, and Douglas Santos takes No. 6.

Neymar leaves behind huge legacy

Neymar’s relationship with the No. 10 became one of the defining stories of his international career. His technical ability, creativity and goals made the shirt synonymous with his name, while his 80 goals made him Brazil’s all-time leading scorer.

The forward wore the No. 10 at the 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026 World Cups, making him one of only a small group of Brazilian players to carry the famous number across multiple tournaments. His departure therefore leaves Raphinha with more than a squad number to inherit.

For Raphinha, the challenge will be creating an identity of his own rather than attempting to replicate Neymar. The Barca forward has already established himself as an important attacking player for the Selecao, and the new shirt adds another layer of responsibility to his role.

The legendary players who wore Brazil’s No. 10

The significance of Raphinha’s new shirt becomes clearer when looking at the players who previously carried the number. Pele, Rivelino, Zico, Rai, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Kaka and Neymar have all worn Brazil’s No. 10 at major international tournaments, creating a lineage few shirts in soccer can match.

Pele helped transform the number into a global symbol during the 1958 World Cup, when the teenager unexpectedly wore No. 10 after FIFA’s squad-number allocation. He went on to win the tournament and later lifted two more World Cups, forever connecting the shirt with Brazilian brilliance.

Rivaldo also wore the number during Brazil’s 2002 World Cup triumph, while Ronaldinho and Kaka carried it at the 2006 and 2010 tournaments, respectively. Neymar then became the dominant figure associated with the jersey across four World Cups, from 2014 through 2026.

With potential sanctions ranging from points deductions and fines to expulsion and the stripping of titles, questions are already being raised about what the outcome could mean for City’s trophy-laden era. Manchester City was charged by the Premier League in February 2023 following a four-year investigation into alleged financial breaches between 2009 and 2018.

The case originated after financial documents belonging to the club were published by German outlet Der Spiegel in 2018. Now, according to The Athletic, as reported by David Ornstein, an independent panel has found City guilty of 114 of the 115 charges it considered. No sanctions have been decided yet, however, and the club is expected to appeal the findings.

The allegations include failing to provide accurate financial information concerning sponsorship revenue and payments to players and coaches. City was also accused of breaching UEFA’s Financial Fair Play regulations and the Premier League‘s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

How did City respond to verdict?

Manchester City has continued to deny the allegations and has now responded to the reports surrounding the verdict. The club stressed that the disciplinary process has not yet reached its conclusion. “The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements to be completed, and subject to strict confidentiality,” City said, reiterating that its position remains consistent with the statement it issued in February 2023.

The club also said it had “diligently respected due process for eight years” while expecting the Premier League board and executive to act as an “independent, impartial and fair-minded regulator, free from partisan influence.”

What punishments could Manchester City face?

The independent panel has considerable discretion when determining the eventual sanctions. Possible punishments reportedly include a points deduction, a substantial fine, restrictions on player registration, retroactive sporting penalties and even expulsion from the Premier League.

The most dramatic possibility would involve stripping Manchester City of titles won during the period covered by the financial allegations. The club won three Premier League titles during that timeframe, in 2011–12, 2013–14 and 2017–18, alongside other domestic trophies.

However, no decision has been made on whether any titles would actually be removed. The club would also have the opportunity to appeal any sanctions, meaning the process could continue for considerably longer.

How many trophies does Haaland risk losing?

This is where the timeline becomes crucial for Erling Haaland. The striker joined Manchester City in 2022, several years after the core period covered by the financial allegations had ended.

Haaland has won nine major trophies with City: two Premier League titles, two FA Cups, one Champions League, one UEFA Super Cup, one FIFA Club World Cup, one Community Shield and one EFL Cup.

His Premier League titles came in 2022–23 and 2023–24, while his Champions League triumph came during City’s historic treble-winning 2022–23 campaign. Those trophies were won after the period in which the main financial breaches are alleged to have occurred.

As a result, Haaland’s nine Manchester City trophies are not directly at risk of being stripped under the current case. Any retrospective removal of titles linked to the alleged financial breaches would concern the seasons covered by those allegations, rather than trophies Haaland won after joining the club.

The Chelsea forward has now played in just two of the eight international camps called since Tuchel’s appointment at the start of 2025, and was left out of the World Cup squad entirely despite being available, adding to a pattern of missed opportunities even before this latest withdrawal.

Tuchel made clear his frustration with the pattern in his pre-match press conference. “For sure it’s a missed opportunity. It’s another missed opportunity. He misses too many opportunities,” he said.

Palmer had racked up six goal involvements in his first seven matches of the season for Chelsea, which had earned him a recall for the Nations League fixtures against Spain, Czech Republic, and Croatia, before pulling out injured once again.

Asked whether the issue was a case of managed workload rather than genuine injury, Tuchel rejected that framing outright. “He plays with discomfort and pain and cannot play on the highest level with discomfort and pain,” he said. “Chelsea informed us. That is my understanding. We’re not managing load“.

Tuchel sends a message to his squad about commitment

Tuchel went further, using the moment to draw a line on what he expects from players called into his squad. “This is not an ‘international break’. It’s a competitive environment, where the players love to train and be together. That’s what we created. We will never compromise on that. We will never let this feeling creep in that the players don’t want to come. We focus on the guys who absolutely want to play for England,” he said, a pointed message as Palmer sits out yet another camp while Chelsea expects him back for their next match once the international break ends.

Palmer wasn’t the only player to withdraw from Tuchel’s original squad for this window, with Declan Rice, Kobbie Mainoo, Marcus Rashford, and Tino Livramento also pulling out.

England captain Harry Kane addressed the wave of absences when asked whether players were failing to prioritize international duty, pushing back on that idea.

“Everyone is extremely proud to be an England player. Everyone has their own individual circumstances, physical situations, mental situations. That’s down to the player and coach to talk and sort out,” Kane said, adding that the squad’s focus remained on preparing at “the highest level” for a stretch of four games in 11 days.

Portugal secured a 1-0 victory over Wales at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, giving Jesus a winning start in his first game in charge. Joao Felix scored the only goal, while Ronaldo endured a frustrating evening that included several missed opportunities and a disallowed effort.

The match marked the veteran’s 234th appearance for Portugal after the 41-year-old decided to continue his international career following the 2026 World Cup. He started alongside his Al-Nassr teammate Felix, but his night quickly became one of missed opportunities rather than another milestone.

CR7 registered seven shots, more than any other player on the pitch, yet could not find the net. His best opportunity came shortly after half-time when Ruben Neves delivered a dangerous ball into the area, but Ronaldo sent his effort over with the goal seemingly at his mercy.

There were other chances too, including an early effort that went wide and another shot that was comfortably collected by Wales goalkeeper Danny Ward. Ronaldo’s frustration was clear, particularly after what looked like his breakthrough was eventually ruled out by VAR.

Ronaldo thought he had scored

The Portugal captain appeared to have finally found his 147th international goal when he raced onto a Bruno Fernandes pass and calmly slid the ball past Ward. Ronaldo immediately ran toward the corner to celebrate his trademark Siuuu, only for VAR to intervene.

The goal was disallowed because Ronaldo had strayed offside when Fernandes played the pass. It proved to be his final major involvement of the night, as Jesus made the decision to replace him with Goncalo Ramos shortly afterward.

Jesus reveals why Ronaldo was sacrificed

The substitution naturally raised questions because Portugal was protecting a narrow lead with 25 minutes remaining. Jesus later explained that his decision was based on the specific demands of the game rather than simply Ronaldo’s failure to score.

“I took Ronaldo off with 25 minutes left to play. Why? Because I thought it was important to have a fresh player who could defend by pressing and not allow their centre-backs to build the play easily,” Jesus explained after the match.

The Portugal coach wanted greater intensity from the first line of defence and believed Ramos could provide it. “I wanted a player with defensive speed in the first line of defence, which is the forwards. I knew Goncalo could do that,” Jesus added.

That meant Ronaldo was sacrificed for a tactical pressing adjustment, with Jesus accepting that Portugal could lose some technical quality while gaining more defensive energy. “We might lose something technically in certain situations, but we would gain something at another moment in the game,” he said.

Jesus had already planned Ronaldo’s substitution

Jesus didn’t suddenly decide on the subtitution after Ronaldo’s missed chances. The Portugal manager revealed that he had already expected to remove his captain during the match, regardless of whether Ronaldo managed to score. “I also knew that Cris could play for longer, another five minutes or another ten at most, because I was going to take him off during the game. I had already planned that,” he added.

That explanation is significant because it shows the substitution was part of Jesus’ broader approach to managing Ronaldo. The coach knows the forward well from their time together at Al-Nassr and appears prepared to make decisions based on the needs of the match rather than simply Ronaldo’s status.

The victory gave Jesus the perfect competitive start, but Portugal now faces a busy period in the Nations League. The national team is scheduled to meet Norway on Sunday, followed by Denmark and another meeting with Norway on October 4.

The Real Madrid forward missed a training session earlier in the week with flu-like symptoms, but Zidane confirmed he’s back to full fitness. “Kylian is fine, he had a minor setback but nothing serious, he will be ready to play tomorrow,” the coach said during a press conference.

France come into this window off the back of a fourth-place finish at the 2026 World Cup, having lost to Spain in the semifinals before falling to England in the third-place playoff.

Zidane takes over from Didier Deschamps looking to reset the group, with two more Nations League matches following this one, away to Belgium on September 28 before home dates against Italy and Belgium on October 2 and 5 at the Stade de France.

Turkiye, meanwhile, were eliminated in the group stage of their first World Cup since 2002 over the summer, and now turn their attention to a Nations League group featuring France, Italy, and Belgium. Vincenzo Montella’s side have won just one of their last six meetings with France, and will be looking to spring an upset on home soil in front of their own fans.

Turkiye projected lineup

Montella will be without Hakan Çalhanoğlu and Kenan Yıldız through injury, with Salih Özcan in line to benefit from Çalhanoğlu’s absence in midfield, while Arda Güler is fit and expected to start out wide.

Turkiye projected starting XI: Çakır; Çelik, Demiral, Bardakcı, Elmalı; Özcan, Kökçü, Yüksek; Güler, Yılmaz, Aktürkoğlu.

France projected lineup

Zidane will be missing William Saliba through injury, while Aurélien Tchouaméni was left out due to fitness issues and Ibrahima Konaté withdrew with a knee problem, with Leny Yoro called up as his replacement. Eduardo Camavinga is expected to start in midfield, and Bournemouth’s Adrien Truffert could earn just his second cap at left-back.

France projected starting XI: Maignan; Koundé, Upamecano, Lacroix, Truffert; Camavinga, Rabiot; Dembélé, Olise, Doué; Mbappe.

The pair of friendlies mark Brazil’s first matches since their World Cup elimination, with Carlo Ancelotti’s side beginning a new cycle aimed at the 2028 Copa América and the 2030 World Cup.

The fixtures came together through the support of the Queensland Government and Tourism and Events Queensland, who helped Football Australia secure both matches as part of a broader push to bring elite international opposition to Australian soil.

Rather than a one-off exhibition, staging two matches in the same window allowed organizers to justify the cost of flying one of the sport’s most decorated national teams across the world for a single international break.

The price tag behind Brazil’s visit

Bringing a five-time World Cup winner to Australian soil doesn’t come cheap. Reports have placed Brazil’s asking fee at around $7.5 million per match, meaning the two-game series could run as high as $15 million when factoring in the broader logistics of the tour.

Splitting the visit across Townsville and Brisbane lets both cities share in the economic and tourism benefits of hosting a five-time World Cup winner, rather than concentrating the entire event, and its price tag, in a single city.

A rare test for the Socceroos

For Tony Popovic’s Socceroos, the double-header offers a rare chance to test themselves against top-tier opposition twice in the same window, something the coach has said he wants to make a regular occurrence moving forward.

The two nations have met 11 times since 1988, with Australia managing just one win, a 1-0 result in the 2001 FIFA Confederations Cup third-place playoff, along with two draws across their long history.

Building on their momentum from a solid 2026 World Cup campaign, Portugal capitalized on home-field advantage at the Estadio Jose Alvalade to secure a 1–0 victory over Wales in their 2026–27 UEFA Nations League opener.

Joao Felix proved to be the match-winner for A Seleção, breaking the deadlock in the 22nd minute with a strike from distance following build-up play from Nuno Mendes. The goal sealed a successful debut for new manager Jorge Jesus in his first official match in charge.

Ronaldo started up front but was unable to add to his historic tally in the match, leaving him stuck on 979 career goals, still 21 shy of the 1,000-goal milestone. His total is split between 833 goals for his club sides, Sporting, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al Nassr, and 146 for the Portuguese national team.

Ronaldo came close early on, forcing a save with a left-footed effort from inside the box in the ninth minute before seeing a follow-up attempt deflected away by the Wales defense minutes later.

João Félix broke the deadlock for Portugal in the 21st minute, and Ronaldo appeared to have found the net himself later in the match, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.

He was withdrawn before the final whistle with the scoreline still 1-0, closing the book on his chances of adding to his tally on the night. Portugal controlled the game throughout against a Wales side missing several regulars, opening their title defense with a win as they look to build toward another deep run in the competition they’ve won twice since 2019.

Ronaldo’s next chances to inch closer to 1,000 goals

Ronaldo will get another shot at the milestone soon, with Portugal’s Nations League campaign continuing on September 27 away to Norway at the Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo.

The match comes just three days after this Wales clash, giving Ronaldo a quick turnaround to add to his tally against a Norway side that also opened its own group stage on Thursday.

From there, Portugal travel to Copenhagen to face Denmark at Parken Stadium on October 1, before closing out the window back on home soil against Norway once again on October 4, this time at the Estádio do Dragão in Porto. Between the three remaining fixtures, Ronaldo will have multiple opportunities to close the gap on 1,000 goals before Portugal’s Nations League group stage wraps up.

The Albiceleste coach addressed the topic while speaking to reporters during the national team’s first week of training ahead of the upcoming friendlies against Bolivia, Burkina Faso, and Benin.

“I think a player like that deserves that. I personally did my part, I want to be at his farewell,” Scaloni said, explaining his motivation for pushing to have the send-off happen now rather than in a future window.

He went on to detail the conversations that led to Messi accepting the timing, acknowledging everything the forward was going through at the time. “We made an effort so he could be at this match, and we knew everything he was going through, and even so he showed the desire to come and say goodbye with his people. If there’s going to be a tribute, it has to be now, to feel the affection of everyone,” Scaloni added.

Scaloni closed by crediting both his own persistence and the AFA’s involvement in making the farewell happen. “We talked, I did my part to convince him that now was the time, that further down the road there was no telling what could happen, and he understood that. The AFA did its part too, and it’s something beautiful because he deserves it,” he said, with Messi set to bid farewell to the national team on October 6 against Benin at the Estadio Monumental.

Farewell doubles as a reunion for the 2022 World Cup champions

Messi’s send-off on October 6 will also double as a farewell for Nicolás Otamendi, who was specifically added to the squad list for that match despite having already retired from the national team.

But the tribute goes beyond the two of them: AFA president Claudio Tapia confirmed that every member of Argentina‘s 2022 World Cup-winning squad was invited to attend alongside their families, regardless of whether they were called up for this window.

The full guest list includes World Cup champions such as Franco Armani, Gonzalo Montiel, Ángel Di María, Paulo Dybala, Marcos Acuña, and Guido Rodríguez, none of whom are part of the current squad.

Even Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and Thiago Almada, who are all still serving FIFA suspensions tied to the incidents following the lost final against Spain, will be present as part of the delegation, even though they won’t be able to take the field.

The pressure intensified after Al-Nassr suffered a 4-0 defeat to Al Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite, while the club is also dealing with a significant injury crisis. With Ronaldo still at the center of the project, Postecoglou has little room for a prolonged slump.

The Australian manager arrived at Al-Nassr in July 2026 on a two-year contract, replacing Jorge Jesus after the Portuguese coach led the club to its first Saudi Pro League title since 2019. The appointment brought together a manager known for attacking football and a squad featuring Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Joao Felix, and Kingsley Coman.

The Australian initially looked to have made an immediate impact. Al-Nassr opened the campaign with five straight victories in all competitions, while Postecoglou was named the Saudi Pro League‘s Manager of the Month for August.

That momentum has since disappeared. A 2-1 defeat to Al-Ittihad ended the club’s perfect league start, followed by a 1-1 draw with Al-Khaleej and then the damaging Champions League defeat against Al Ain.

The Al Ain defeat changed the mood

The 4-0 loss to Al Ain represented a major setback for Postecoglou and Al-Nassr, particularly because of the expectations surrounding the club’s continental campaign. The result intensified scrutiny of the Australian’s tactics, squad management and handling of Ronaldo.

Postecoglou, however, refused to allow criticism of his captain to dominate the discussion. After the defeat, he strongly defended Ronaldo when a journalist questioned the forward’s recent contribution, saying, “The responsibility is mine… You shouldn’t say that about somebody who is still setting an example for everyone.”

The experienced coach has also pointed to the demanding schedule as a factor behind the recent dip. Al-Nassr has faced a congested run of matches in difficult conditions, leaving Postecoglou with limited recovery time and increasingly stretched resources.

Major concerns could complicate Postecoglou’s dismissal

Despite the growing speculation about Postecoglou’s position, Al-Nassr has another major issue to consider before making a decision: the financial consequences of ending his contract early.

According to 365Scores Arabic, the club’s management is carefully assessing the Australian’s future because dismissing him could create additional financial burdens and increase scrutiny from financial oversight bodies. Postecoglou only signed his two-year contract around two months ago, meaning a premature departure could carry significant compensation costs.

The financial concerns are particularly important because Al-Nassr has already faced pressure over its finances. Earlier reports placed the club’s liabilities at more than SAR 800 million (around $213 million), while tighter financial controls have affected its ability to operate in the transfer market.

The situation has been evolving for several weeks as a consortium seeks greater control of Al-Nassr. With the club facing financial pressure and questions surrounding its long-term direction, Ronaldo’s future involvement could become an important part of any agreement.

The Portuguese’s possible involvement in an Al-Nassr takeover first emerged in September, when reports linked him to a consortium that could include RedBird Capital Partners chairman Gerry Cardinale and several Saudi investors. The proposed structure was reported to involve contributions of around $100 million per member, potentially creating an investment package worth approximately $500 million.

However, the structure has never been finalized, and no binding agreement has been reached. Earlier reports from 365Scores Arabic suggested that the 41-year-old superstar was leaning toward stepping back because of concerns about Al-Nassr’s administrative problems and the lack of a sufficiently clear long-term vision.

Those concerns reportedly went beyond one isolated issue. Ronaldo was said to view the club’s management, finances, and overall direction as interconnected problems that would need to be addressed before a sustainable ownership project could move forward.

Investors make one major request

The latest development has now changed the picture. According to Asharq Business, as reported by Asharq Bloomberg, the investment consortium has specifically requested that Ronaldo be included as an investor in the Al-Nassr deal.

The request reportedly relates to a clause in Ronaldo’s contract that gives him priority to acquire a 20% stake if the club is open to private investment. That provision could provide a contractual route for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner to become directly involved in the club’s ownership structure.

Portuguese newspaper A Bola had previously reported that Ronaldo had already joined the alliance. Under the reported proposal, each of the five members would invest at least $100 million, potentially taking the total investment to around $500 million.

Who is behind Al-Nassr’s investment group?

The consortium is reportedly being led by RedBird Capital Partners, the investment firm headed by Gerry Cardinale, who is also the owner of Christian Pulisic’s Milan and Toulouse. Saudi businessman Ibrahim Al Muhaidib, a former Al-Nassr president, and other Saudi partners are also understood to be involved in the discussions.

The group has reportedly held talks with the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which currently controls Al-Nassr, as it explores the possibility of acquiring a stake in the club. Negotiations remain ongoing, with the parties reportedly targeting a potential agreement by the end of the current season.

That means Ronaldo’s inclusion is still part of a developing process rather than a completed transaction. No binding deal has been confirmed, and the final ownership structure will depend on negotiations between the investors and PIF.

De Jong’s absence traces back to a knee injury he suffered during the World Cup itself, when he was accidentally caught by a fall during a group-stage match, but initial tests cleared him to keep playing, and he featured in all of the Netherlands‘ matches through their round-of-32 exit to Morocco.

It was only after returning from the tournament that he was diagnosed with a tear of the medial collateral ligament in his right knee, a setback Barcelona have opted to treat conservatively rather than through surgery, with a recovery window of four to six months.

De Jong is not the only notable absentee for Xavi’s Netherlands, though, as Donyell Malen, Mats Wieffer, Justin Kluivert, and Matthijs de Ligt are also out through injury. On the other side, Klopp is dealing with a fitness issue of his own, with Leon Goretzka ruled out for Germany due to a knee problem.

Despite the lengthy absentee list, Xavi is expected to build his side around captain Virgil van Dijk, still the team’s defensive leader, as the Dutch look to open their new era under the Spanish coach with a positive result against their historic rivals.

Xavi shares encouraging update on Frenkie de Jong’s recovery

Xavi offered a positive update on De Jong’s recovery ahead of tonight’s clash, revealing the two remain in close contact throughout his rehabilitation from the knee injury. “I was talking with him, we have a very good relationship. He’s happy with how the recovery is going and has very good feelings about it. We’ll see, we’ll see,” Xavi said in comments to Catalan broadcaster 3Cat.

The Dutch coach added that the international break could mark a turning point in De Jong’s return to full training. “I think the key moment will be after this break, precisely to see if he rejoins the group and can feel good about returning to play at one hundred percent,” he said.

De Jong has been out for two months since being diagnosed with a tear of the medial collateral ligament in his right knee, and continues to follow a conservative treatment plan after surgery was ruled out.

The clash carries extra weight given the fresh starts on both sides, with the Netherlands and Germany sharing Group A2 alongside Serbia and Greece this cycle.

Both Ronald Koeman and Julian Nagelsmann were dismissed following underwhelming showings at the 2026 World Cup, and Xavi and Klopp were brought in to relaunch each nation’s project.

Xavi already notched an early win off the pitch by convincing Virgil van Dijk not to retire from international duty, and the defender will captain the Dutch against his former Liverpool manager.

Klopp, meanwhile, retains faith in Florian Wirtz despite a slow start to the season at Anfield, and leans heavily on his old Bayern Munich connections with Joshua Kimmich, Jonathan Tah, Serge Gnabry, and Jamal Musiala all included.

Netherlands confirmed lineup

Xavi is expected to go with a lineup built around his Liverpool contingent and Van Dijk’s captaincy, with Justin Kluivert and Frenkie De Jong as the notable absentees due to injury.

Netherlands confirmed starting XI: Bart Verbruggen; Denzel Dumfries, Virgil van Dijk, Jan Paul van Hecke, Micky van de Ven; Ryan Gravenberch, Tijjani Reijnders, Quinten Timber; Crysencio Summerville, Brian Brobbey, Cody Gakpo.

Germany confirmed lineup

Klopp is set to hand Wirtz a starting role alongside his Bayern Munich stars, with Manuel Neuer and Antonio Rudiger both missing following their international retirements.

Germany confirmed starting XI: Marc-André ter Stegen; Philipp Treu, Jonathan Tah, Nico Schlotterbeck, Nathaniel Brown; Félix Nmecha, Joshua Kimmich; Kevin Schade, Jamal Musiala, Karim Adeyemi, Kai Havertz.

The match at the Estadio Monumental could mark Messi’s final appearance for La Albiceleste on home soil as the 39-year-old prepares to bring an extraordinary international career toward its conclusion. Dybala and fellow Roma player Nahuel Molina are both understood to be keen to accept Messi’s invitation, adding another emotional layer to what is expected to be a memorable occasion.

Dybala was not included in Lionel Scaloni’s latest Argentina squad for the upcoming international fixtures, but his absence from the official squad does not necessarily mean he will miss Messi’s farewell. The forward has instead been given a special invitation by the nation’s captain to be present for the Benin match.

The relationship between the two players carries particular significance because Dybala shared Argentina’s historic 2022 World Cup triumph with Messi in Qatar. While Dybala’s role in that tournament was limited, he was part of the squad that finally delivered the long-awaited World Cup title.

For the 32-year-old, being personally invited by Messi to participate in his farewell could therefore represent a deeply meaningful moment. Argentina is also scheduled to face Bolivia and Burkina Faso during the international window, but the Benin fixture is expected to carry the greatest emotional significance.

Roma’s concerns create problem

The complication comes from Dybala’s club commitments with Roma, with Gian Piero Gasperini reportedly preferring that the forward remain in Italy during the international break. The issue centers on the physical demands of making a long transatlantic journey to Argentina and returning to Europe shortly before an important Serie A fixture.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Roma would prefer to avoid Dybala making two intercontinental flights within a matter of days, particularly with the club scheduled to face Como on October 11. The club’s preference is for the Argentine to remain at Roma’s training ground, work with the main group and prepare for the next domestic match.

That creates an unusual situation for Dybala, who now has to balance a personal invitation from one of the most important figures in his career with the wishes of his club. The Giallorossi are reportedly concerned about fatigue and workload management at a crucial point in the Serie A season.

Molina faces exact same situation

Dybala is not the only Roma player caught in the middle of the situation. Nahuel Molina has also received an invitation from Messi to attend the special Argentina fixture, meaning Roma has two players potentially facing the same decision.

The club’s concerns therefore extend beyond a single player. Roma’s management is reportedly leaning toward keeping both players in Italy so they can continue their training program without the disruption of long-haul travel.

For Molina, the invitation is also significant because he was another member of the Argentina squad that won the 2022 World Cup alongside Messi and Dybala. The possibility of bringing that group together again for Messi’s farewell gives the event an added sense of nostalgia.

Dembele arrived at Barcelona in 2017 after emerging as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents with Rennes and Borussia Dortmund. He had extraordinary speed, dribbling ability and the confidence to take on defenders, but his approach was often built around entertainment and instinct rather than consistently making the most effective decision.

The player Dembele was at 20 is very different from the forward he has become at Paris Saint-Germain. The Frenchman remembers being obsessed with tricks, nutmegs and stepovers, particularly when he was trying to give supporters something to celebrate.

“When you’re 20, you want to pull off one, two, three nutmegs. Two, three step-overs, hear the crowd scream,” Dembele explained in his interview with the BBC. That mindset reflected the carefree soccer he had played as a youngster in Evreux, where creativity and spontaneity were central to his game.

But age and experience gradually changed his priorities. The Frenchman realized that producing a spectacular moment was less important than making the right decision repeatedly, and that shift eventually became one of the defining characteristics of his game.

The Messi lesson that changed Dembele

The turning point came during his years at Camp Nou, where Dembele had the opportunity to watch Lionel Messi operate at the highest level every day. Their lockers were reportedly next to each other, giving the Frenchman an unusually close view of how one of soccer’s greatest players prepared, moved, and made decisions on the pitch.

“Then afterwards I looked for efficiency, and I saw and played in Barcelona with the best players in the world,” Dembele said. He then explained exactly what stood out when he shared the dressing room with Messi: “I played with Lionel Messi, I saw how he played, and it was all about efficiency.”

That was the key lesson. Messi showed Dembele that the most effective players do not need to make every action spectacular; they need to make their actions count, whether that means taking on a defender, creating a chance, finding a teammate, or finishing an attack.

From showmanship to efficiency

Dembele has since embraced that mentality as his career has progressed, becoming far more focused on the end product. He acknowledged that the maturity that comes with age has changed the way he approaches every possession.

“As you get older—at 28—you become much more mature. You improve your game. I’m not the same player I was at 20, when I was at Dortmund,” he revealed further to the BBC. “Over the years, I’ve focused above all on being effective in everything I do on the pitch. And the most important thing remains helping the team.”

That evolution has been particularly visible at PSG, where the star forward has developed into a more complete and influential attacking player. His role has become increasingly central, while his goals, assists and overall involvement have helped him move far beyond the raw winger who first arrived at Barcelona.

Messi’s influence remains with him

Dembele’s transformation has also strengthened the respect between the two former teammates. After Dembele’s Ballon d’Or-winning campaign with PSG, Messi was among the players to congratulate him, with the Frenchman admitting that the message from his former captain “really struck” him.

Dembele has continued to describe Messi as the greatest player he has ever seen, while his comments about efficiency show how deeply the Argentine’s example influenced his own development. Watching the Argentine turn seemingly simple decisions into devastatingly effective actions gave Dembele a model he could eventually apply to his own game.

Portugal enters the Nations League as the two-time champion, having beaten Spain on penalties in the 2025 final. The national team has won 11 of its 14 home Nations League matches, suffering only two defeats.

Wales, meanwhile, returns to League A after an unbeaten promotion campaign in the previous edition. However, Bellamy’s side has struggled for consistency recently and has gone four matches without a win, making the opening assignment in Lisbon particularly demanding.

The Selecao das Quinhas has won three of the four previous meetings between the teams, with Wales’ only victory coming in a friendly in 1951. The most recent encounter was the Euro 2016 semi-final, when Ronaldo and Nani scored in Portugal‘s 2-0 victory on the way to the European Championship title.

Jorge Jesus begins his Portugal era

Jesus has inherited a squad packed with familiar names, including Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha, Joao Felix and Joao Neves, while Wales returns to League A after earning promotion. The biggest question surrounding the hosts concerns the role Ronaldo will have as the 41-year-old enters another international campaign.

The match represents Jesus’ first game in charge of Portugal after replacing Roberto Martínez following the national team’s 2026 World Cup round-of-16 exit to Spain. At 72, Jesus will also become the oldest manager to take charge of Portugal, surpassing Fernando Santos’ previous record of 68.

The coach already knows Ronaldo well after working with him at Al-Nassr during the 2025-26 season, when the Saudi club won the Saudi Pro League. Jesus also has clear ideas about how he wants his Portugal team to play, with the coach emphasizing flexibility and asking players to adapt to his system.

“Each coach has their own ideas about the game, and I have mine about what I want for the National Team,” Jesus said. “Within my idea, there is more of a second striker than a third midfielder.”

Will Ronaldo start?

The mystery surrounding Ronaldo’s involvement has now been resolved. Jorge Jesus has confirmed that Ronaldo will start against Wales, giving the Portugal captain the chance to lead the team into the new era from the first whistle.

“And if nothing special happens, Cris will play tomorrow from the start,” Jesus said. He has also described Ronaldo as “our symbol”, underlining the importance the veteran still holds within the national team.

Ronaldo enters the match with 146 international goals in 233 appearances, while the Wales fixture could become his 234th cap. He is also continuing his pursuit of 1,000 official career goals, with the latest figures putting him at 979 goals.

Portugal vs Wales: Confirmed lineup

Portugal confirmed XI (4-3-3): Diogo Costa, Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes; Rúben Neves, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes; Pedro Neto, João Félix, Ronaldo.

Wales confirmed XI (4-3-4): Ward; N.Williams, Cabango, B.Davies, Dasilva; Ampadu, J.James, Sheehan; Brooks, Thomas, Johnson, Koumas.

“I had time to disconnect a bit, to let go of the disappointment of not being able to win (the World Cup final), which is the reality, but with the peace of mind that everything played out the way it did. Regarding my situation, there’s no news, I’ll meet with the president in the coming days. We’ll talk, there’s maximum willingness to sit down, and when we have to announce something, we will,” Scaloni said.

His comments come amid reports that talks over a potential renewal are already advancing, with Fabrizio Romano having reported that Argentina had offered Scaloni an extension running through the 2030 World Cup, structured around the 2028 Copa América with an option to continue beyond it.

Scaloni, however, was careful to downplay any of that reporting as premature. “Everything that comes out isn’t true, we’ll communicate when we have to. For now everything is as before, we’re working for these matches,” he said, before adding: “The desire to be here is there, but there are a lot of aspects we need to discuss with the president. Logically, after such an emotional tournament, one rethinks things, and I repeat, we’ll sit down to talk and see what we do”.

Scaloni explains the generational turnover behind Argentina’s new-look squad

Argentina‘s latest call-up list features plenty of new faces and a clear youth movement, with Scaloni bringing in six additional names from the Argentine league and three more from abroad, among them Leonel Flores, Tomás Palacios, Equi Fernández, Santiago Simón, and Valentín Gómez.

Addressing that broader roster turnover, Scaloni framed it as a natural step following the World Cup rather than a dramatic overhaul. “The signal behind the call-up list is what any coach would do, a World Cup just ended and we believe it’s the moment for turnover, because most of the group will remain and there are young players coming through,” he said.

He also drew a direct comparison to the start of his own tenure, insisting the approach hasn’t changed since he first took charge. “We’re doing the same thing as in 2018, we work for the national team, we don’t work for anyone personal and it’s something we had to do, which can pay off. Everything takes time, with the mindset that these kids can stick around,” Scaloni added.

With Messi’s farewell closing one era for Argentina, Scaloni’s message was clear: this window is as much about building the next group as it is about honoring the last one, giving the newer faces room to grow into a squad that will soon have to stand on its own.

As the current Nations League winner, Portugal is poised to defend its title in this match with a fully fit squad available, while Wales returns to League A after earning promotion from the second tier. The visitors have also gone four matches without a win, setting up an intriguing opening night at Estadio Jose Alvalade. The match marks the competitive start of the Jorge Jesus era in Portugal following Roberto Martinez’s departure after the 2026 World Cup.

The nation was eliminated by eventual champion Spain in the quarter-finals, bringing an end to Martinez’s tenure and prompting the appointment of the experienced Jesus. The former Al-Nassr boss is also attempting to defend the Nations League title that the team won in 2024-25, having previously lifted the trophy during the competition’s inaugural 2018-19 edition.

Wales, meanwhile, earned promotion after topping its League B group under Craig Bellamy, but its return to the top tier begins with one of the toughest possible away assignments. The national team has failed to win its last four international matches and arrives in Lisbon with several important players unavailable.

Joe Rodon, Dylan Lawlor, Nathan Broadhead and Isaak Davies are among the confirmed absentees, while Harry Wilson, Rubin Colwill and Karl Darlow have also been reported as unavailable in the wider squad updates. Those absences have forced Bellamy to make changes, particularly in defense.

What the opening result means for Group A4

Portugal and Wales are competing in League A, Group A4, alongside Denmark and Norway. The group phase consists of six matches for each national team, with the top two advancing to the League A quarter-finals, while third place enters a relegation play-off and fourth place is relegated to League B.

That makes the opening fixture important even though it is only Matchday 1. A win gives a team an immediate three-point advantage, while a draw leaves both sides with one point and allows the winner of the other group fixture to establish an early lead.

The opening match cannot determine who reaches the quarter-finals or who is relegated, but it can establish the starting gap between the four teams. With Portugal, Denmark, Norway and Wales all beginning the league phase on zero points, every result from Matchday 1 becomes part of the eventual race for the top two.

What happens if Portugal beats Wales?

A Portugal victory would give Jesus three points from his first competitive match and immediately put the defending champion in a strong position in the early table. Depending on the result between Denmark and Norway, Portugal could either sit outright at the top or share first place after the opening round.

Wales, meanwhile, would begin its return to League A with zero points, leaving Bellamy’s side needing results in its next fixtures to stay in touch with the teams competing for the quarter-final places. For Portugal, three points at home would provide an ideal platform before the next challenge away from Lisbon.

What happens if Wales beats Portugal?

A Wales victory would give Bellamy’s side three points and an immediate position near the top of Group A4, while Portugal would remain on zero. It would also produce a dramatic opening to Jesus’ competitive reign, especially given Portugal’s historical advantage in this matchup.

Portugal has won its most recent meetings with Wales, including the 2-0 Euro 2016 semi-final, while Wales’ last victory over Portugal dates back to 1951. A defeat would therefore leave the defending champion needing a response in the next round, particularly with Norway and Denmark also competing for the top two positions.

What happens if Portugal and Wales draw?

A draw would see Portugal and Wales collect one point apiece, leaving both sides potentially in the middle of the early standings depending on the Denmark-Norway result. Neither team would be eliminated from anything after Matchday 1, but the points dropped could become more significant later in a tightly contested group.

For Wales, taking a point away against the reigning champion would represent a valuable start to its return to League A. Portugal, meanwhile, would have to make up the difference elsewhere, particularly because dropping points at home can leave less room for error during the remaining five matches.

Portugal enters the fixture as the defending Nations League champion, having previously won the competition in 2019 and 2025. Wales, meanwhile, has returned to League A after earning promotion but arrives without a victory in its last four matches and with several important players unavailable through injury.

Jesus takes over from Roberto Martinez after Portugal’s 1-0 World Cup defeat to eventual champion Spain ended its tournament in the last 16. The new manager has inherited a squad filled with established stars, including Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias, Vitinha and 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo remains part of the national team despite retirement speculation following the World Cup. He is expected to lead the attack in Lisbon, with Fernandes operating behind him and Joao Felix and Pedro Neto providing additional creativity in the final third.

The Selecao’s home form also gives Jesus plenty of reason for optimism. The national team has gone unbeaten in its last 10 home matches, recording nine wins and one draw, while its wider recent run was only halted by Spain at the World Cup.

Wales faces major test in Lisbon

Wales returns to League A after topping its previous League B group under Craig Bellamy, but the current circumstances are considerably more difficult. The national team has gone four matches without a win, while injuries have removed several experienced options from Bellamy’s squad. Harry Wilson, Nathan Broadhead and Karl Darlow are among those who have withdrawn, while Joe Rodon and Dylan Lawlor are also unavailable.

Despite the problems, midfielder Jordan James believes Wales still has a chance of causing an upset, describing the national team’s prospects as a “puncher’s chance.” The visitors will need a disciplined defensive performance against a side that possesses considerable quality throughout its lineup.

Portugal’s FIFA ranking revealed

The latest FIFA figures provide another piece of context ahead of the Nations League opener. Portugal is currently ranked 7th in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking with 1,787.85 points, according to the latest official ranking update following the 2026 World Cup.

That places Portugal comfortably inside the global top 10 despite its early World Cup exit. Wales is ranked 38th with 1,516.95 points, creating a sizeable gap between the two national teams before they meet in Lisbon.

The ranking difference reflects the contrasting positions of the sides on the international stage, although it does not determine what happens on the pitch. Portugal still has to translate its higher ranking and home advantage into a result against a Wales side returning to the competition’s top division.

WHO: Portugal vs Wales
WHAT: UEFA Nations League
WHEN: 2:45 PM ET / 11:45 AM PT • Thursday, September 24, 2026
WHERE: Fubo
STREAM: WATCH NOW

Match Overview

Portugal enters a new era as they host Wales in the opening match of their Nations League campaign. After a disappointing exit at the hands of Spain in the Round of 16 of the World Cup, the Portuguese side is under new management with Jorge Jesus at the helm. This clash at the Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon is a crucial first test for Jesus, who will be desperate to make a statement and kick off his tenure with a convincing victory in front of a home crowd.

For Wales, this match represents a formidable challenge as they step up to League A. Having been promoted from the second tier, Craig Bellamy’s side must now prove they can compete with Europe’s elite. The Dragons are grappling with poor recent form and the bitter disappointment of failing to qualify for the World Cup. A positive result in Lisbon would be a massive boost for a team looking to build momentum for the upcoming Euro 2028 qualifiers.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

The two nations arrive at this fixture on wildly different trajectories. Portugal is brimming with world-class talent, including Champions League winners and established stars, and is looking to reset after the World Cup. The appointment of Jorge Jesus signals a fresh start, with expectations remaining sky-high. In contrast, Wales is in a period of rebuilding, and their promotion to League A feels like a trial by fire, especially given their recent struggles and a string of injuries to key players.

The tactical battle will likely pit Portugal’s aggressive, high-pressing style against a resilient Welsh counter-attack. Jorge Jesus is known for implementing a high-tempo game, and his side will aim to dominate possession and apply relentless pressure. Wales will likely concede territory, stay compact defensively, and look to exploit the pace of forwards like Daniel James and Brennan Johnson in transition. The match could be decided by Portugal’s ability to break down a low block and Wales’ clinical execution on the break.

Motivation is clear for both sides. As the reigning Nations League champions, Portugal is under immense pressure to begin their title defense with a dominant performance. The players will also be eager to impress their new manager. For Wales, the primary goal is survival in League A. Every point is vital, and this tournament serves as a critical springboard to prepare and build confidence for the more significant Euro 2028 qualification campaign.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, this has been a one-sided fixture. In the four occasions these nations have met, Portugal has emerged victorious three times, underscoring their long-standing dominance. Wales has managed only a single win, which came in a friendly match decades ago, highlighting the significant gap between the two sides over the years.

The most recent and meaningful encounter took place in the semi-finals of EURO 2016. In what was Wales’ furthest-ever run in a major tournament, their dream was ended by a 2-0 Portugal victory. That result propelled Portugal to the final, where they would lift the trophy. The other meetings were international friendlies, with the last Welsh win dating back to 1951.

The statistical trends heavily favor the home side. Across their four meetings, Portugal has scored nine goals while conceding just three. This offensive output, combined with their historical ability to secure wins in crucial moments, paints a clear picture. Wales has consistently struggled to breach the Portuguese defense in competitive settings, a trend they will be desperate to reverse in Lisbon.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Portugal enters this new cycle with a refreshed squad under new leadership, while Wales arrives significantly hampered by a growing injury list.

Under new manager Jorge Jesus, Portugal’s first squad selection blends established veterans with emerging talent. The controversial inclusion of 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed headlines, but Jesus has also brought in new faces like goalkeeper Samuel Soares and forward Fábio Silva. Key players like Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva retain their spots, though notable absentees include Matheus Nunes and Nelson Semedo.

Wales faces a much tougher situation, with manager Craig Bellamy’s options limited by injuries to several key starters. Harry Wilson, Nathan Broadhead, and Joe Rodon are all sidelined, forcing a tactical reshuffle. This crisis means Brennan Johnson, who typically plays wider, may be deployed as a makeshift striker, a testament to the selection challenges facing the Welsh side.

Portugal Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Veiga, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha; Neto, Fernandes, Felix; Ronaldo.
This lineup reflects Jorge Jesus’ likely preference for technical quality and attacking firepower. Bruno Fernandes is expected to orchestrate the attack from the number ten role, with Cristiano Ronaldo leading the line as Portugal looks to assert dominance from the opening whistle.

Wales Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Ward; Williams, Cabango, Davies, DaSilva; Ampadu, James; Brooks, Wilson, James; Johnson.
Forced by injuries, this formation aims to provide defensive solidity while relying on the pace of its wide players for counter-attacking threats. Brennan Johnson’s role as the central forward will be crucial, as Wales will need to be efficient with their limited scoring opportunities.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the Portugal vs Wales match on Fubo. The service is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and mobile devices running iOS or Android.

In addition to the Nations League, a subscription to Fubo gives you access to a host of other top soccer competitions from around the world. You can stream matches from leagues such as LaLiga, Budesliga, and UEFA Champions League, providing comprehensive coverage for any soccer fan.

A subscription to the service costs just $14.99 per month, offering excellent value for the sheer volume of live sports content available. This plan ensures you won’t miss a moment of the action from Europe’s biggest international competitions.

Beyond soccer, the platform also features a deep library of movies, TV shows, and other live sports, making it a complete entertainment package for the entire household. From blockbuster films to exclusive series, there is always something to watch.

SEE MORE: Schedule of Nations League games on US TV and streaming

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.

The players ruled out are Thiago Almada and Juan Foyth, both left off the roster for the three matches that will close with Messi’s emotional send-off against Benin.

Almada suffered a muscle injury after being substituted early in River Plate’s match at the Argentine league, with initial assessments pointing to several weeks on the sidelines.

Foyth’s situation traces back further, as the Villarreal defender has been managing muscle discomfort since late August that never fully cleared up. Rather than risk him, the coaching staff opted to leave him out of all three friendlies.

With both players sidelined, Argentina will host Bolivia on September 30 at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Córdoba, before returning to the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires to face Burkina Faso on October 3 and Benin on October 6, the date set for Messi’s farewell appearance in the Albiceleste shirt.

Argentina won’t call up replacements for Almada and Foyth

Following the injuries to Almada and Foyth, Argentina could bring in two other players as replacements, but it doesn’t appear to need them. That’s because head coach Lionel Scaloni had already added six players from the Argentine league and three from abroad to the original list, pushing the squad to 37 names.

Almada was one of the six local additions, joining Nicolás Otamendi, Santiago Beltrán, Tobías Andrada, Leonel Flores, and Tomás Palacios, while Equi Fernández, Santiago Simón, and Valentín Gómez were the players added from abroad.

With such a deep squad already in place, Scaloni can comfortably absorb the losses of Almada and Foyth without disrupting his plans for the farewell window. Otamendi’s case remains the one exception worth noting, as the defender was called up despite having already retired from the national team, brought back solely for his own send-off alongside Messi on October 6 against Benin.

In an interview with German outlet Bild from France’s training camp ahead of their UEFA Nations League A clash with Turkiye, Mbappe was asked directly whether he could see himself still representing his country at that same age.

“Me, like him, still playing and in the national team at 41? We have to be honest, considering the national team I play for, France will never allow me to play until I am 41,” Mbappe said, laughing off the comparison before turning serious.

The Real Madrid forward, who has long cited Ronaldo as his childhood idol, acknowledged the scale of what the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has managed to sustain at an age when most players have long since retired from the international stage.

“However, Cristiano shows that, if you are physically and mentally fit, it is possible to play at incredibly high levels for a long time. In my case, though, I do not think that will happen,” Mbappe added, framing Ronaldo’s longevity as an exception rather than a standard he expects to match.

Ronaldo’s role with Portugal shows no signs of fading

Cristiano Ronaldo was called up once again for Portugal’s upcoming Nations League A fixtures under new coach Jorge Jesus, continuing to hold his place in the roster at 41 despite the ongoing debate around his fitness and long-term role.

Far from being phased out, Ronaldo remains a central figure both on the pitch and in the dressing room, with Jesus himself publicly backing his continued involvement in the new setup.

Ronaldo has been candid about how long he intends to keep going, saying in a recent press conference that he plans to keep contributing to the national team for as long as he feels he still has something to offer, or until Portugal no longer needs him.

For now, though, that scenario looks far off: both Jesus and the Portuguese federation continue to rely on him as a key piece of the project, a trust reflected in his repeated call-ups even as questions persist about how much longer he can sustain this level.

“Allow me to weigh in on the discussion surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo here. I’ve noticed that what concerns you journalists most is how much longer he has left in his career, and whether he still has the physical fitness required to continue playing. Cristiano is an icon for Portugal and the national team. Of course, a player’s right to play in matches is a factor, but the final decision always rests with the coach,” Jesus said.

The coach went further, offering a concrete example of the impact Ronaldo still has on the national team beyond the pitch. “After spending a full year with him, I now fully understand the value Cristiano represents for Portugal. Let me give you a clear example: we played a match in Hong Kong at a stadium with a capacity of 55,000. When Cristiano didn’t play, only 3,000 people attended. When he played, the stadium was completely full with 55,000 spectators. That is the difference Cristiano makes,” he said.

The defense comes at a moment when Ronaldo himself has had to field repeated questions about his future, and it lines up with the broader picture painted throughout the same press conference: a coach and federation who continue to lean on him, and a player who insists he’ll only stick around for as long as that remains true.

Cristiano Ronaldo is used to critics

Jesus‘s comments came shortly after Ronaldo addressed the criticism himself, making clear it’s nothing new to him at this stage of his career. He acknowledged that certain outlets have made a habit of going after him over the years, brushing off any notion that the attacks have ever come close to affecting him, joking that he’s practically learned to dodge the bullets by now.

After more than two decades in the spotlight, Ronaldo said he’s simply grown accustomed to the noise, choosing instead to focus on the people who support him rather than those who don’t. “What I can control, I control. What I cannot control, I don’t control,” he said, summing up an approach that has clearly carried him through years of scrutiny without shaking his standing in the squad.

Ronaldo believes Jorge Jesus is the right coach for Portugal

Ronaldo was also asked whether Jesus, a manager he’s long been familiar with during their time at Al Nassr, is the right fit to get the best out of the national team at this stage of the rebuild. He didn’t hesitate, calling the appointment the perfect choice given everything the squad already knows about how the Portuguese coach operates.

He framed the new setup as a clean break from what came before, pointing to a different atmosphere, tactical approach, and even language in the dressing room, while noting that several of his teammates have already worked under Jesus and should help the transition move faster. “Therefore, we are all confident and hopeful that things will go well. It will be a long challenge; the manager will be here for many years, and I wish him all the best,” he said, closing his answer by framing the appointment as a long-term project.

With Ronaldo hinting that retirement is drawing near, the striker was questioned at a recent press conference about the 1,000-goal mark and whether it stands as his primary ambition before leaving the pitch.

“The goal is to achieve both, to reach 1000 goals and for the national team to try to win the Nations League,” Ronaldo said on press conference. “The competition starts tomorrow. It’s a new era. That doesn’t mean that what happened before wasn’t good; I think we did what we had to do.”

Cristiano Ronaldo has been outstanding for Portugal

Prior to Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival on the international stage, Portugal had never won a major international trophy. Under CR7’s leadership, the national team has claimed three major honors—one UEFA European Championship and two UEFA Nations League titles—and the captain remains hungry for more.

Aiming to finish his international career on a high note, Ronaldo is targeting another trophy with Portugal, though the path ahead presents a stiff challenge.

Portugal face Wales, Denmark, and Norway in their 2026–27 UEFA Nations League group under new manager Jorge Jesus. While it represents a formidable group for the Seleção, another trophy run remains well within reach for Ronaldo and his star-studded squad.

Asked what specifically tipped the decision in favor of staying, Ronaldo pointed to conversations with the people running Portuguese fedration. “I spoke with the president of the federation and the coach, and they rely on me. And I still believe that I’m capable of helping the national team achieve what it wants,” he said.

He also framed his continued presence as being about more than just goals, positioning himself as a mentor figure for Portugal‘s next generation of players. “And I believe I can support the national team, not only through goals but also off the pitch. This is a new era, a young generation. But for me, the key is being able to score goals on the pitch and help the team win matches,” he added.

The numbers still back up that argument. Ronaldo arrives at this Nations League window with 233 caps and 146 goals for Portugal, both national records, and remains the squad’s most experienced player under new head coach Jorge Jesús, who takes charge of his first camp since replacing Roberto Martínez after the World Cup.

Ronaldo is ready to walk away if needed

Part of the reasoning behind Ronaldo’s decision to continue with the national team came up again when he was asked whether this Nations League campaign could double as an opportunity to start handing his role over to Portugal’s younger forwards, easing the transition to the next generation rather than making it abrupt.

His answer left no ambiguity about how he views his own place in the squad. “If the coach doesn’t need me, I can leave today; there’s absolutely no problem. When I feel like I’m not adding value, not contributing anything on the pitch, not scoring goals, or that I’m creating a negative atmosphere, or simply if they no longer want me here, I’ll be the first to leave. I won’t just take my boots; I’ll pack my bags and go,” he said.

For now, though, he made clear that isn’t where things stand. Ronaldo said the relationship remains mutual, with the coaching staff and the Portuguese federation still relying on him, heading into a Nations League window that sees Portugal face Wales on September 24, Norway on September 27, Denmark on October 1, and Norway again on October 4 to close out the group stage.

After winning five Ballon d’Or awards, multiple Champions League titles and major international honors while becoming the all-time leading men’s international goalscorer, Ronaldo appears increasingly comfortable with his place in soccer history.

Moreover, the veteran still has plenty of ambitions, including the pursuit of 1,000 career goals and continuing to contribute to Portugal. Yet his latest comments suggest that he no longer needs another trophy, record or performance to validate everything he has already accomplished.

A journalist pointed out that Ronaldo appeared unusually calm, spontaneous and relaxed compared with some of his previous media appearances. The question then turned personal, asking whether he was enjoying this chapter of his career more than ever and what he would tell the younger version of himself.

Ronaldo has learned to accept what he cannot control

Ronaldo’s response centered on something that has taken years of experience to develop. Rather than focusing on the constant scrutiny surrounding him, he explained that he has learned to understand himself and accept that some things in soccer will never change.

“As I often say, I’m comfortable with myself,” Ronaldo said. He acknowledged that criticism will always exist, regardless of whether a player is performing well or making mistakes, describing it as an unavoidable part of the sport.

“The criticism will always be there, and I can’t deny that. It’s normal. That’s football,” he explained. “Even when you do things right, people criticize you. So imagine when you do things wrong! That’s normal.”

Ronaldo reveals what has made him happier

The biggest insight into Ronaldo’s current mindset came when he explained what now matters most to him. He said his happiness comes from knowing who he is, understanding the work that took him to the top, and surrounding himself with people who trust him.

“I’ve learned to live with it, but for me, the most important thing is that I know who I am,” Ronaldo said. “I know what I do to be here. And I know what I’ve done to achieve the success I’ve achieved.”

That perspective appears to have changed the way he handles the inevitable noise surrounding his career. Ronaldo has spent years being judged against impossible standards, but he now seems more interested in the people who continue to support him than those who question him. “So I’m happy. I’m happy with myself, you know?” he added.

His message to the young Cristiano Ronaldo

The question about his younger self also revealed what Ronaldo considers to be one of the most meaningful parts of his legacy. While his career has been built around goals, trophies, records and individual awards, he highlighted the influence he has had on young fans who view him as a role model. “I know why young children, in particular, love Cristiano, because they see me as a role model. And for me, that’s the most important thing,” the veteran added.

He also suggested that this responsibility could continue long after his playing career ends. “And I’ll continue doing that even after I retire, even if that’s ten years from now,” he said, offering a glimpse into how long he believes he could potentially remain involved in soccer.

During the 2025–26 Saudi Pro League season, Ronaldo flourished under his compatriot’s guidance as Al Nassr claimed the league championship. Now, manager and captain aim to replicate that domestic success on the international stage.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Portugal’s opening match against Wales, Ronaldo was questioned about his reunion with Jesus and whether they can transfer their club synergy to the national team.

“I think he was the perfect choice, considering the qualities we all know Coach Jorge Jesus possesses,” Ronaldo said. “The past is the past. And I’ll say it again: it’s a new era, a different atmosphere, different ideas, different tactics, and a different language.

“So, all I hope is that things go as well as possible. (…) It will be a long journey. The coach will remain for many years, and I wish him all the best. I’m sure he was the best choice.”

A new and final chapter for Cristiano Ronaldo

This year, Ronaldo has hinted that the 2026–27 campaign could mark the final season of his professional career. While he has not retired from international duty, the curtain appears to be closing on his iconic career.

The 41-year-old captain remains determined to add more silverware to his collection, with the 2026–27 UEFA Nations League title standing as his primary objective as he looks to secure further glory with Portugal.

Although retirement looms, Ronaldo’s relentless competitive drive leaves open the possibility of extending his playing days even further—perhaps even aiming for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, where Portugal will serve as co-hosts.

A demanding path in the Nations League

Portugal face a rigorous start to their Nations League campaign in a group that features Wales, Denmark, and a dual fixture against Norway.

Many observers view this group as one of the most challenging Portugal has encountered in the tournament. Norway, following a breakout performance at the 2026 World Cup, are widely regarded as top contenders to capture the Nations League crown in this edition.

Jesus has already made it clear that reputation alone will not determine his selections. The coach, who previously worked with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr and guided the Saudi club to the Saudi Pro League title, is preparing Portugal for a demanding run of Nations League fixtures beginning against Wales.

Jesus has previously stressed that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s name will not guarantee him a place in the starting XI. The new Portugal coach has said that current performances will determine his decisions, despite recognizing the extraordinary career Ronaldo has had.

“Cristiano is a player like all the others. If he performs well, he plays. If he doesn’t, he won’t,” Jesus said. “He has a different status and has won five Ballon d’Or awards, but does that influence my decisions? No.”

That approach creates an interesting dynamic between the two men. Jesus knows Ronaldo well from their time together at Al-Nassr, but his first international squad suggests that the veteran’s place will be judged alongside every other player.

Ronaldo leaves the decision in Jesus’ hands

With Portugal facing Wales in Lisbon on Thursday, Ronaldo was asked about his role and whether he would be prepared to accept a different position within the team. His response revealed a willingness to put the coach’s decisions ahead of his own desire to start. “I’m completely ready to play. If the coach wants me to start the match on the bench, I’m ready for that too,” Ronaldo told reporters on Wednesday.

The Portugal captain went even further, insisting that he would have no issue with being left out of the match entirely. “Even if I don’t play in the match, there won’t be a problem. It’s about managing the squad, and that’s the coach’s responsibility,” he added.

That admission is particularly notable given Ronaldo’s status with Portugal. The forward has been a near-constant presence for the national team for more than two decades, but he now appears prepared to accept whatever role Jesus believes is best for the squad.

Ronaldo accepts the need for rotation after two decades with the national team

The veteran explained that the compressed schedule makes rotation inevitable, especially with Portugal facing several matches in a short period. Ronaldo acknowledged that it would be unrealistic to expect every player to complete 90 minutes in every game.

“We haven’t discussed it much, but I understand that things will work this way given the short amount of time and the fact that it’s impossible for every player to play the full 90 minutes,” he said. Ronaldo’s final message was equally clear. “So, I’m ready. Whenever the national team needs me, as has been the case throughout my career of more than 20 years with the team, I’ll make my contribution.”

The comments underline how the 41-year-old views his international future at this stage of his career. He remains determined to contribute, while accepting that Jesus will ultimately decide when and how he is used.

The Nations League represents another opportunity for Ronaldo to add to his international legacy. Portugal enters the competition as the defending champion, having beaten Spain on penalties in the 2025 final to become the first two-time winner of the tournament. There is also the personal pursuit of 1,000 career goals, although Ronaldo has repeatedly indicated that the milestone is not an obsession.

Pulisic played his part as Milan produced a convincing 3-0 victory over Lecce, giving Amorim another important result after a difficult spell. The Portuguese coach’s first five Serie A matches have now produced a statistical landmark that stretches back almost half a century.

Amorim‘s first five league matches have produced three wins and two draws, giving him 11 points from a possible 15. Milan began with victories over Torino and Venezia before drawing against Juventus and Lazio, then returned to winning ways against Lecce.

The sequence has kept the Rossoneri unbeaten in Serie A under the Portuguese manager, despite the pressure that followed a difficult run of results. The 3-0 win over Lecce was particularly important after its 2-0 Europa League defeat to Benfica and consecutive league draws.

Pulisic was among the players to benefit from the tactical adjustments Amorim made for the Lecce match. The American has become an important attacking option as the coach continues to find the right balance within his new squad.

Amorim shatters record that stood for 47 years

The Lecce victory confirmed the historic achievement. Amorim became the first Milan manager since Massimo Giacomini in 1979-80 to remain unbeaten through his first five league matches in charge. That means 47 years had passed since another Milan coach had opened a league tenure with five consecutive games without defeat. Giacomini’s start consisted of two wins and three draws, while Amorim has recorded three wins and two draws.

The Portuguese coach has also joined an even more exclusive group. Only Luis Carniglia and Nils Liedholm had previously guided the club through their first five Serie A matches without suffering defeat, with both achieving the feat during the 1963-64 season.

Amorim’s 11-point haul is impressive, but one historic start remains ahead of him. Liedholm collected four wins and one draw across his first five matches, which translates to 13 points under the modern three-points-for-a-win system.

Carniglia also recorded three wins and two draws, giving him the same 11-point total as Amorim when converted to today’s scoring system. Amorim has therefore matched Carniglia’s points haul while falling two points short of Liedholm’s extraordinary opening.

Pulisic could become important to Amorim’s project

For Pulisic, the changes could provide an opportunity to establish himself as one of Amorim’s key attacking players. The American has been used in more central attacking areas, giving him opportunities to influence matches from positions where he can combine his movement, creativity and finishing.

The Lecce victory therefore carried significance for both player and coach. Pulisic contributed to a result that moved Amorim into rare Milan territory, while the manager’s tactical adjustments offered another indication of how his project could develop.

The moment came when a journalist asked him about Jorge Jesús’s ability to lead the national team to a World Cup or European Championship title, before slipping in a far more personal follow-up about when he plans to retire. Ronaldo, clearly amused, asked the reporter to pick just one question to save time for the rest of the room.

When pressed on the retirement question anyway, Ronaldo made clear he wasn’t going to give a straight answer, admitting he genuinely doesn’t know. “I wish I could answer that question, but I can’t, because I don’t know. I learned something when I was just past 30: live in the moment and don’t think about tomorrow. And that’s how I’ve lived my life ever since. I don’t know,” he said.

Asked directly whether retirement is something that could realistically happen, Ronaldo didn’t rule it out, but stopped short of putting a timeline on it. “Is it possible? Yes. Is it very likely? Yes. But will it happen? No, I don’t know,” he said, leaving the door open without committing to anything concrete.

What he did commit to was how the news would eventually come out, and to whom. When the journalist asked whether he’d tell the Portuguese public first, Ronaldo pushed back on the framing entirely. “Why? Am I the Portuguese people?” he said, before clarifying that any announcement wouldn’t be limited to his home country. “I’ll tell the world, not just the Portuguese,” he added, promising that whenever the moment comes, everyone will find out at once.

Portugal’s Nations League schedule this window

Ronaldo and Portugal open their 2026-27 Nations League campaign against Wales on September 24 at the José Alvalade Stadium in Lisbon, before facing Norway away on September 27.

The group continues on October 1 against Denmark, and closes out the window on October 4 back at home against Norway, this time at the Estádio do Dragão in Porto, as Jorge Jesús’s side looks to open his tenure with a strong run through League A.

Salah scored three times and added an assist as Trabzonspor secured a remarkable 4-0 victory over Galatasaray. The performance continued his outstanding start to life in the Super Lig, with the 34-year-old now leading the scoring charts after only six league appearances.

Salah’s hat-trick was the highlight of a dominant performance from Trabzonspor. The Egypt captain produced two excellent solo efforts before completing his treble, while his assist added another contribution to an unforgettable evening.

The result was particularly striking given Galatasaray‘s recent domestic dominance. The club had won the previous four Turkish league titles under Okan Buruk, but it had no answer for Salah as Trabzonspor produced one of its biggest statements of the season.

The Egyptian has quickly found his rhythm following his summer move from Liverpool after nine years at the English club. He has now scored seven goals in his first six Super Lig matches, making him the league’s leading scorer at this stage of the campaign.

Salah joins Ronaldo in exclusive 21st-century list

The significance of Salah’s three goals goes beyond the result. He became only the seventh player since 2000 to score a hat-trick against Galatasaray, joining a select group that includes Ronaldo. Ronaldo achieved the feat during his Real Madrid years in 2013, scoring three times as the La Liga giant demolished Galatasaray 6-1 in the Champions League. More than a decade later, Salah has now matched one of the most prolific scorers in soccer history.

The list is particularly exclusive because Galatasaray has faced some of the biggest names in European soccer during that period. Yet only seven players have managed to score three times against the Turkish outfit in a single match since 2000. The Portuguese superstar’s performance against Galatasaray came during Real Madrid’s 2013-14 Champions League campaign.

He scored a hat-trick in Istanbul as Real Madrid cruised to a 6-1 victory, with Karim Benzema also scoring twice and Isco adding another. It was another reminder of Ronaldo’s extraordinary ability to produce on Europe’s biggest stage. His three goals helped the club make an emphatic start to the Champions League campaign and added another memorable hat-trick to his already enormous collection.

The feat has remained rare since then. Only Rodrygo has also scored a hat-trick against Galatasaray while representing Los Blancos, doing so in a 6-0 victory in 2019.

Who else has scored a hat-trick against Galatasaray?

The seven-player list stretches across several competitions and clubs. Emanuel Adebayor appears twice, having scored hat-tricks for Istanbul Basaksehir in April and November 2017. Danny Welbeck also reached the milestone in 2014, while Stanislav Sestak did so in 2011. Eran Zahavi became the most recent player to accomplish the feat before Salah, scoring three times for PSV in 2021 Champions League qualifying.

Salah’s inclusion therefore puts him alongside an unusual mixture of Premier League stars, Real Madrid legends and players who made their mark in Turkish soccer. Ronaldo remains the biggest name on the list, but Salah has now added his own remarkable chapter.