Bernardo Silva has paid the price for Portugal’s lackluster performance against DR Congo in their opening group game of the 2026 World Cup. The new Real Madrid signing drops to the bench for Tuesday’s clash with Uzbekistan, with João Félix taking his place in the starting lineup. There is no suggestion of an injury.

Félix is expected to be one of three players, alongside Bruno Fernandes and Pedro Neto, supporting Cristiano Ronaldo in attack. The former Real Madrid superstar will be desperate to break his 10-game goal drought with Portugal in major tournaments, which dates back to November 2022.

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Bernardo Silva pays the price

Bernardo’s omission perhaps should not come as a huge surprise, as he was replaced at halftime by head coach Roberto Martínez in last week’s disappointing draw with DR Congo. Francisco Conceição, rather than Félix, who remained on the bench for the full game, replaced Silva on that occasion.

Manchester City defender Rúben Dias has been recalled to the lineup, with Benfica’s Tomás Araújo dropping out of the team.

Portugal eye place in knockout stage

A victory for Portugal against World Cup debutants Uzbekistan will almost certainly be enough to see them through to the round of 32, although they will not be able to confirm their spot in the knockout stage on Tuesday.

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