Portugal Fully Fit for Spain Clash, Backed by Massive Support

Before heading back to the United States, specifically Dallas and not Miami, to face Spain in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16, the National Team held another training session in Toronto, Canada, this Saturday morning (afternoon in Continental Portugal).

Eight of the eleven starters from the 2-1 victory against Croatia—Diogo Costa, Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes, Rafael Leão, João Neves, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Pedro Neto—initially remained in the gym. Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha, and João Cancelo, who were substituted in the second half, joined the rest of the reserves on the pitch.

This is purely a workload management strategy, especially with the Iberian derby scheduled for just over 48 hours after this training session. However, Roberto Martínez is not expected to have any absentees for the fifth match of this World Cup. Indications are that the coach will have everyone available for the final 75 minutes of the session, following the 15 minutes open to the media.

The session was notable for the sheer number of fans present around Centennial Park, estimated at around two thousand, with many clinging to and climbing fences to catch a glimpse of the start of training. Even Cristiano Ronaldo, who initially stayed in the gym, came out to greet and wave to the supporters.