Portugal will be without defender Ruben Dias for their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against DR Congo on Wednesday evening, head coach Roberto Martinez has confirmed.
Dias picked up an injury in the final days leading up to the match and is not fit to play. The Manchester City centre-back featured in Portugal’s last two warm-up games against Chile and Nigeria.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Martinez said the decision was made to avoid taking unnecessary risks.
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“He is not at 100 percent, and it is important not to take risks. He is not fit for the game. He is working well, but it is important to think about the period when Ruben will be at 100 percent,” Martinez said.
Portugal open their World Cup campaign against DR Congo later today.
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