Mexico and Portugal face off in a 2026 international friendly at Estadio Azteca, as both sides continue their preparations for the World Cup, with Mexico set to be one of the host nations. Star power is expected on the field, although Portugal arrive without their most important piece, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Portugal have already secured their place at the World Cup after topping their qualifying group with 13 points from six matches, closing their campaign with a dominant 9-1 win over Armenia in their final game. The team showed consistency and attacking strength throughout the process.
Mexico did not participate in World Cup qualifiers as one of the host nations, so they have relied entirely on friendly matches for preparation. Their most recent outing was a convincing 4-0 win over Iceland, featuring mostly Liga MX players, showing intensity and cohesion, two elements they need against a stronger opponent like Portugal.
Portugal confirmed lineup
Head coach Roberto Martinez will be without several key players for this camp. Cristiano Ronaldo misses out due to a hamstring issue suffered with Al Nassr, and he is joined on the sidelines by Diogo Costa, Rafael Leao and Rodrigo Mora, while Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias, Joao Palhinha and Nelson Semedo have also been left out.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal.
Portugal’s confirmed starting XI features a 4-3-3 built on midfield control and fluid attacking movement: Rui Silva; Joao Cancelo, Antonio Silva, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes; Samu Costa, Ruben Neves, Bruno Fernandes; Francisco Conceiçao, Joao Felix, Gonçalo Ramos.
Mexico confirmed lineup
Mexico’s confirmed starting XI features a compact, possession‑oriented structure: Raul Rangel; Jesus Gallardo, Johan Vasquez, Cesar Montes, Israel Reyes; Erik Lira, Alvaro Fidalgo, Omar Vargas, Bryan Gutierrez; Roberto Alvarado, Raul Jimenez.
