Portugal selected its starting eleven for the World Cup group game against Colombia on 27 June 2026. Rafael Leão was missing from the squad. Bernardo Silva and Nelson Semedo also missed out. The coach said the changes came because Silva’s role has shrunk.
In the match Cristiano Ronaldo netted a goal, becoming the oldest ever World Cup scorer. Portugal held onto the lead and won the game. Leão remained on the bench. When the final whistle blew he joined his fellow players and took part in the record‑breaking cheers.