Away from Benfica, Tomás Araújo on Portugal's World Cup chances: We are... | OneFootball

Tomás Araújo is confident about Portugal’s chances at the 2026 World Cup. After the win against Nigeria (2-1) in the final warm-up match, the Benfica defender highlighted the unity within the squad and assured that the team is ready to take on the tournament with ambition.

The Portugal international - who is being monitored by Bayern Munich - came on at half-time in the match played in Leiria, forming a central defensive partnership with Renato Veiga. At the end of the game, the Benfica centre-back did not hide his satisfaction with the work done during this preparation phase.

"We’re confident. Physically, we’re a little worn out from the match, obviously. The coach asked for 45 very intense minutes from the teams that came on in each half. But I think we’re ready. It’s a very united group, we really enjoy being together, and we’re going all in for the World Cup", he said.

"If the space is there, we can make the most of quick transitions. But yes, there are certain moments in the game when we can keep the ball a little more and not just... Also the full-backs, or even the midfielder, staying back a little more for defensive transition. But I think those are aspects the coach will talk about, we’ll improve, and we’ll be ready", he continued, referring to the goal conceded against the Super Eagles.

"I think we’re ready. Both defensively and offensively, we’re ready. Of course, we still need a few adjustments, both offensively and defensively, but I think we’re ready in both areas", concluded Benfica’s 'number 44', reinforcing the National Team’s confidence ahead of the start of the World Cup.

It should be remembered that the 2026 World Cup will take place between June 11 and July 19, 2026, in the United States, Canada and Mexico. It will be the first edition with 48 teams, 12 groups and 104 matches. .

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