Jorge Jesus marks Portugal debut with win, hails “special feeling” | OneFootball

Jorge Jesus led Portugal to victory over Wales in the Nations League

A multiple-title winner as Flamengo’s coach, Jorge Jesus began a new chapter in his career with a win. This Thursday (24), Portugal, with the Mister on the touchline, defeated Wales 1-0. The match took place at José Alvalade Stadium in Lisbon, in the opening round of the Nations League.

While in charge of Flamengo, Jorge Jesus won the Brasileirão and the Libertadores in 2019, in addition to other titles during his time at the club. As a result, the coach arrives at the Portugal national team as one of the most successful names in recent football.

HOW DID JORGE JESUS CELEBRATE THE WIN?

After the match, Jorge Jesus posted a photo on social media to celebrate his debut. In the caption, the coach took the opportunity to highlight the moment.

“The first match with the national team, in my country, my flag, my people. All of this creates a special feeling. Our debut is done! We won and solidified the team. We will improve our processes and move toward victory! On Sunday we are one voice, one heart, Portugal,” he wrote.

View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jorge Jesus (@jorgejesus)

WHAT IS THE CONTEXT OF JORGE JESUS’ ARRIVAL IN PORTUGAL?

Jorge Jesus took over from Roberto Martínez after the 2026 World Cup. In Group K of the tournament, Portugal drew with DR Congo (1-1) and Colombia (0-0). In addition, they thrashed Uzbekistan (5-0). As a result, the team finished with 5 points in second place in the group and advanced to the second round. At that stage, they eliminated Croatia (2-1). However, they lost to Spain (1-0) in the round of 16 and were knocked out of the tournament.

DOES JORGE JESUS PLAN TO MAKE CHANGES WHILE KEEPING THE WORLD CUP CORE?

Despite keeping much of the squad that played in the World Cup, the coach indicated that he intends to change the way Portugal plays. Even so, Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41, remained among those called up. The No. 7 led the Portuguese attack until midway through the second half, when he gave way to Gonçalo Ramos. Still, age did not cost the star his starting place in the debut of the new era.

WHO HAS ALREADY WORKED WITH JORGE JESUS?

The Portugal national team also includes other players who have already been coached by Jorge Jesus. In addition to Cristiano Ronaldo, João Félix also worked with the Mister at Al-Nassr (SAU). João Cancelo and Rúben Neves, meanwhile, were coached by JJ at Al-Hilal (SAU). As such, the four names are expected to appear in the probable starting lineup for the next round.

WHAT IS PORTUGAL’S NEXT MATCH?

Portugal return to the field on Sunday (27) against Norway. Kickoff is at 3:45 p.m. (Brasília time) at Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo, in the second round of the Nations League.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.