Portugal Announces Squad for Friendlies Against Mexico and United States, Ronaldo Sidelined
Lisbon, Portugal – March 20, 2026 – In a notable shift ahead of crucial preparation matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Portugal’s national team manager, Roberto Martínez, has announced his squad for upcoming friendlies against Mexico and the United States. The announcement, made today, revealed a surprising omission: Cristiano Ronaldo, the veteran forward currently playing for Al Nassr, will not feature in either match. This decision comes as Portugal gears up for its World Cup campaign, seeking to fine-tune its strategy and assess player form in these high-profile encounters. The match against Mexico will likewise mark the reopening of Estadio Banorte, adding another layer of significance to the fixture.
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has been closely monitoring the situation in Mexico, particularly regarding security concerns, before making a final decision on whether to proceed with the friendly match. According to a statement released by the FPF, the safety of players, coaching staff, and fans remains the utmost priority. This cautious approach underscores the importance placed on ensuring a secure environment for the team as they prepare for the World Cup. The FPF is awaiting guidance from the Portuguese government before finalizing travel arrangements, demonstrating a commitment to responsible decision-making in light of potential risks. The friendly against Mexico is scheduled for March 28th, with a subsequent match against the United States on March 31st at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
Ronaldo’s Absence and Squad Composition
The absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, a mainstay of the Portuguese national team for nearly two decades, is due to an unspecified injury, as reported by Getty Images. While the exact nature of the injury has not been publicly detailed, it is sufficient to rule him out of these preparatory matches. This provides an opportunity for other players to showcase their abilities and potentially earn a place in the final World Cup squad. Martínez’s selection reflects a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, aiming to build a cohesive and competitive unit.
The full squad list, as announced by the Portuguese Football Federation via Twitter, includes a mix of established stars and promising newcomers.
Os convocados para a dupla jornada nas “Américas” ✈️🌍
🔗 𝗦𝗔𝗕𝗘 𝗠𝗔𝗜𝗦 👉 https://t.co/UZ0RBxekjZ#VaiDarPortugal | @FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/IwNL0irvpR
— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) March 20, 2026
Strategic Importance of Friendlies Ahead of the World Cup
These friendlies against Mexico and the United States are considered vital preparation for Portugal’s campaign in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Both teams present unique challenges and will serve as valuable opponents for Martínez to assess his team’s tactical readiness. Mexico, under the guidance of Javier Aguirre, will be particularly significant as the match marks the reopening of Estadio Banorte, adding a festive atmosphere and heightened stakes to the encounter. The United States, as co-hosts of the World Cup, also provide a realistic simulation of the competitive environment Portugal will face during the tournament.
Portugal is grouped in Group K for the 2026 World Cup, alongside Uzbekistan and Colombia. They will also face the winner of the intercontinental playoff involving Jamaica, New Caledonia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The group stage matches will be played in Houston and Miami, with the opening match scheduled for June 17th against an opponent yet to be determined. The subsequent matches against Uzbekistan (June 23rd) and Colombia (June 27th) will complete the group stage commitments. The choice of Houston and Miami as host cities reflects the growing popularity of soccer in the United States and the desire to capitalize on the expanding fan base.
Mexico’s Security Concerns and Impact on Preparations
The decision by the Portuguese Football Federation to closely monitor the security situation in Mexico highlights the growing concerns surrounding the country’s ability to host major international sporting events. Recent events have sparked widespread rumors about potential security risks, prompting a cautious response from participating nations. The FPF’s statement emphasizes that the safety of its delegation is paramount, and they are awaiting guidance from the Portuguese government before making a final decision on travel arrangements. This situation underscores the importance of robust security measures and effective coordination between host nations and participating teams to ensure the smooth and safe execution of international competitions. ESPN reported on February 24, 2026, that these issues were prompting discussion about the overall preparedness for the 2026 World Cup in Mexico.
The Estadio Banorte, located in Monterrey, Mexico, is set to host the friendly match between Mexico and Portugal on March 28th. The stadium has a capacity of approximately 51,000 spectators and is a key venue for soccer in the region. Its reopening after renovations will be a significant event for Mexican soccer fans, but the security concerns surrounding the match remain a priority for both teams and organizers. The Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, which will host the match between Portugal and the United States on March 31st, has a capacity of over 75,000 and is a state-of-the-art facility designed to accommodate large-scale sporting events.
The upcoming matches represent a crucial opportunity for Roberto Martínez to experiment with different formations and player combinations, assess the team’s overall fitness levels, and refine its tactical approach ahead of the World Cup. The absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, while a setback, provides a chance for other players to step up and demonstrate their capabilities. The focus will be on building a strong team spirit, fostering a cohesive playing style, and ensuring that Portugal is fully prepared to compete at the highest level when the World Cup kicks off in June.
As Portugal prepares for these important friendlies, the nation’s soccer fans will be eagerly anticipating the performances of their team and hoping for a successful World Cup campaign. The matches against Mexico and the United States will provide valuable insights into Portugal’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing Martínez to make informed decisions about his final squad selection and tactical strategy. The road to the 2026 World Cup is underway, and Portugal is determined to make a significant impact on the global stage.
The next key date for Portugal’s World Cup preparations is the announcement of the final squad list in May 2026. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to witness which players earn a place in the team and how Martínez intends to utilize their skills and talents. Stay tuned to World Today Journal for continued coverage of Portugal’s journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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