Portugal XI vs Spain: Confirmed team news, predicted lineup and injury latest for World Cup 2026 | OneFootball

Will Cristiano Ronaldo continue up top in last-16?

The question remains as to whether Cristiano Ronaldo deserves to start as Portugal face Spain in the World Cup last-16.

The great man, now 41, has been in middling form for the Selecao this summer, but has so far remained a fixture in the starting eleven and got the nod in the last-gasp round of 32 defeat of Croatia.

His performance was not stellar, though he did get himself on the scoresheet with a penalty 20 minutes from time.

It was the substitute Goncalo Ramos who scored the injury-time winner, though, and the question has been raised as to whether the AC Milan man should get the nod here.

It is a conundrum for Roberto Martinez, who must placate Ronaldo’s ego. He looked grumpy enough at being substituted against Croatia, and would presumably be unimpressed not to make the starting XI.

Cristiano Ronaldo sulked after being replaced against Croatia

Getty Images

As such, expect him to lead the line once more against Spain, with a quarter-final place on the line.

Elsewhere, Joao Neves replaced Ruben Neves in midfield against Croatia and should keep his place here.

Rafael Leao took Joao Felix’s place for the Croatia match and will continue in his role after bagging an assist.

Pedro Neto was unimpressive on the opposite flank and may lose his place to Francisco Conceicao, who put in a lively performance off the bench last time out.

Predicted Portugal XI vs Spain (4-2-3-1): Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Veiga, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha; Conceicao, Fernandes, Leao; Ronaldo

Injured: None

How to watch: BBC Sport