Diogo Costa out of Portugal games versus Mexico and USA; Ricardo Velho drafted in | OneFootball

It is the second time Ricardo Velho has been selected in the senior Portugal squad (Photo: FPF)

Farense goalkeeper Ricardo Velho, currently on loan at Turkish club Genclerbirligi Ankara, has been called into the Seleção squad for the friendlies against Mexico and USA after Portugal No1 Diogo Costa was pronounced unfit.

The Porto goalkeeper played in last night’s 2-1 victory over Braga at the Quarry, but needed treatment during the game on a recurring thigh injury. After being assessed by the Portuguese Football Federation Health and Performance Department, a decision was made to release Costa so he could continue his recovery in Porto.

Velho was first called into the Portugal squad in October 2024 for the Nations League matches against Poland and Scotland, but did not get off the bench.

The 27-year-old, who a little over a year ago was rumoured to be on the cusp of a move to Benfica after impressing at the Algarve club, now gets another chance with the Seleção.

It is the second alteration to the squad announced by Roberto Martínez last Friday, after striker Paulinho was called up following the injuries to Rafael Leão and Rodrigo Mora.

Portugal play Mexico at the Azteca Stadium on 28 March and USA in Atlanta on 31 March.