Key Takeaways:
- Nuno Mendes sustained a left knee sprain during PSG’s Champions League defeat to Bayern Munich and will miss Portugal’s final two World Cup qualifiers
- Carlos Forbs of Club Brugge received his debut call-up to Portugal’s squad, as announced by Roberto Martinez
- Portugal will face the Republic of Ireland away on 13 November before hosting Armenia in Porto
Squad Announcement: Forbs Included, Ronaldo Continues to Lead
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has named his 26-man squad for the upcoming international window. The selection features the return of captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who retains his position as a key figure for the Navigators alongside João Neves, who has recovered from injury. Notably, Carlos Forbs of Club Brugge has been selected for the first time, earning his debut call-up following his club heroics.
Highlighting Ronaldo’s ongoing importance, Martinez commented that the forward “continues to be an example for the others with over 200 matches.”
Eis os convocados para os últimos encontros de Portugal na qualificação para o Mundial 2026. 🇵🇹
Carlos Forbs é a grande novidade nos convocados.
O que achaste das escolhas de Roberto Martínez❓#seleçaoportugal #robertomartinez #mundial2026 pic.twitter.com/hK6efbhBaB
— A BOLA (@abolapt) November 7, 2025
Nuno Mendes Sidelined After Injury in Champions League
Nuno Mendes, Portugal’s influential right back, suffered a left knee sprain during Paris Saint-Germain’s 1-2 loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League. National team manager Roberto Martinez confirmed Mendes will be absent from the squad for the final two World Cup qualifiers. Martinez expressed his disappointment, stating: “He is a special player. There is no one who can replace Nuno Mendes. He is probably the best in the world at the moment.” The defender is expected to be sidelined for several weeks.
Decisive Fixtures Ahead as Portugal Chases Qualification
Portugal is set to visit the Republic of Ireland on 13 November and will then host Armenia in Porto on 16 November. A victory in Dublin would guarantee Portugal a place at the upcoming World Cup.
