Portugal remains one of the top national teams globally. Under the leadership of Roberto Martinez, they won the 2025 UEFA Nations League. Their strong form continues in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers, where they are still unbeaten in their first two matches. Now, the team is reportedly planning a friendly match against a South American nation, excluding Argentina.
As reported by A Bola, Portugal is organizing its competitive fixtures for next year. They are in talks for a friendly against Colombia in early 2026, with a tentative date in March 2026, during the international break before the World Cup.
Although Colombia is a leading option, they are not the only team under consideration. According to A Bola, Portugal is also looking at Ecuador as a possibility for the friendly. This suggests that Cristiano Ronaldo might face a Conmebol team before the World Cup.
Portugal’s situation is different from that of Colombia or Ecuador, as they are still competing for a spot in the 2026 World Cup. This creates uncertainty over the friendly match, depending on Portugal’s qualification for the tournament. If they need to participate in the European playoffs in March 2026, they will face scheduling conflicts.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal runs with the ball whilst under pressure.
What’s next for Portugal in 2025?
While Portugal is planning for 2026, they have important tasks ahead in 2025. Following two victories, the team is currently leading Group F in the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers. However, they need to complete two more sets of matches to secure their spot in the tournament.
Portugal will host Ireland on October 11, a team they have not lost to in their last five encounters. They will finish the first set of matches by hosting Hungary on October 14, a team they also have a strong record against. After a month off, they will visit Ireland again on November 13 and conclude their qualifying journey by hosting Armenia on November 16.
Portugal aims for a historic 2026 World Cup
Over the past twenty years, Portugal has become one of the leading national teams, featuring stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Luis Figo. Despite their success, they have only a couple of notable FIFA World Cup finishes: a semifinal in 1966 and a third place in 2006. Now, guided by coach Roberto Martinez, they aim to win their first world championship title.
In their recent World Cup tournaments, Portugal has only reached the round of 16. Currently, the team combines experienced players with emerging talent, making them a strong competitor. With Cristiano Ronaldo at the forefront and Vitinha managing the midfield, they are focused on making an impact at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.