Pre-matchTuesday, June 23

Undefeated Portugal seek redemption after Uzbek shock

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Portugal return to Estádio Nacional de Brasília needing a commanding win over Uzbekistan to steady their campaign after the Central Asians stunned them with a late equaliser in their opening fixture.

The market makes Portugal overwhelming favourites—around 1/10 at major bookmakers—and our pool is all in: 74 out of 74 have backed the Seleção, with nearly 40% predicting a 2–0 or 3–0 win.

The stakes

Portugal sit third in Group K on a single point after Uzbekistan's 89th-minute leveller denied them all three in their opener. Colombia lead the group with three points from a 2–0 win, while DR Congo also have a point from their draw. A Portugal victory today would restore order and set up a final-day showdown with Colombia for top spot; anything less leaves their qualification fate precariously balanced heading into the decisive match against DR Congo.

Team news & key matchup

Roberto Martínez is expected to rotate his squad after that frustrating opener, with Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva likely to come into the midfield to unlock Uzbekistan's deep block. The key duel will be Cristiano Ronaldo—still chasing goals at 41—against Uzbekistan's compact five-man defence marshalled by Utkir Yusupov. The White Wolves will look to replicate the disciplined shape that frustrated Portugal for 89 minutes last time, sitting deep and hitting on the counter through the pace of Eldor Shomurodov. Portugal's wide men, Rafael Leão and Pedro Neto, must stretch the pitch and create space for the runs of Diogo Jota and Ronaldo.

What the odds say

The bookmakers give Portugal no quarter: bet365 and William Hill both price them around 1/10 to win, with Uzbekistan out at 25/1 and the draw at 8/1. Those lines reflect the gulf in class and Portugal's need to make a statement after dropping two points in their first meeting. The Seleção are clear, heavy favourites to collect three points and restore momentum.

▸Sources (32)