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The World Cup truly begins now. Roberto Martínez has unveiled Portugal's starting XI for their Round of 16 clash against Croatia, making two changes from the squad that drew with Colombia in the final group stage match.
The new faces include João Neves returning to midfield, after Rúben Neves started against the Colombians, and Rafael Leão stepping into the right side of the attack, replacing João Félix.
Otherwise, the national team coach maintains the team's core, with Diogo Costa in goal, Rúben Dias and Renato Veiga at the heart of the defense, Nuno Mendes on the left, Cancelo on the right, and the midfield trio of Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, and João Neves.
Upfront, Roberto Martínez once again opts for Cristiano Ronaldo as the central striker, supported by Pedro Neto on the left, reinforcing his confidence in the national team captain to lead Portugal in the knockout phase.
Portugal's Starting XI: Diogo Costa; João Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga, and Nuno Mendes; João Neves, Vitinha, and Bruno Fernandes; Pedro Neto, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Rafael Leão.
FOLLOW ALL THE MATCH INCIDENTS HERE.
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