Portugal selected its starting eleven for the World Cup group match against Colombia on 27 June 2026. Rafael Leão was left out of the team. Bernardo Silva and Nelson Semedo also were omitted. The manager explained the changes came because Silva’s role has been reduced.
In the match Cristiano Ronaldo scored, becoming the oldest ever World Cup scorer. Portugal held onto the lead and won the game. Leão stayed on the bench. When the final whistle blew he ran to his teammates and took part in the record‑breaking cheers.