Rafael Leão: «The only thing missing was the ball going in, the team deserves credit»

Portuguese forward Rafael Leão came off the bench in the goalless draw against Colombia on matchday three of Group K in the 2026 World Cup.

«The only thing missing was the ball going in. We had chances in the first half to score, opportunities for Bruno Fernandes and João Félix. In these games, against high-quality teams, and in knockout stages, like our upcoming match against Croatia, it's crucial to be clinical. We tried our best to score at the end. Colombia is a quality side. The main focus was shutting down Luis Díaz and James. The team deserves credit. It was a tough game with a difficult atmosphere. Now it's time to rest,» he analyzed, speaking to Sport TV, looking ahead to the knockout phase where Portugal will face Croatia in the Round of 16.

«We are Portugal, and we always respect every national team. We showed the quality of our squad and our ability to endure. A team with great quality must know how to suffer in difficult moments. I believe that's what will take us far in this World Cup. The group is united,» he stated.