Portugal named its XI for the World Cup group match against Colombia on 27 June 2026. Rafael Leão was not in the line‑up. Bernardo Silva and Nelson Semedo also were omitted. The manager explained the changes came because Silva’s role has shrunk.
In the match Cristiano Ronaldo found the net, becoming the oldest ever World Cup scorer. Portugal kept the lead and held on to win. Leão stayed on the bench. When the final whistle blew he joined his fellow players and joined the celebration of the record.