Portugal steps onto the pitch for its first competitive outing since the World Cup, and the occasion carries the weight of a new chapter. The Nations League champions will defend their title on Thursday against Wales, marking the inaugural match of Jorge Jesus’s tenure as head coach. The Portuguese side, fresh from retaining their Nations League crown and a recent World Cup round-of-16 exit to Spain, now faces the task of translating that success into a new era under a manager who has already delivered domestic glory.

Cristiano Ronaldo, still a pivotal figure at 41, will line up for what could be his final Nations League appearance. The veteran forward, who has amassed 234 caps for Portugal, remains a central threat despite his advancing years. His presence underscores the continuity as Jorge Jesus begins his project, with Ronaldo having confirmed he deliberated international retirement after the World Cup before deciding to stay available and pursue a 1,000-goal career milestone