Joao’s the wow factor

By the Editorial Team · Saturday, September 26, 2026

Portugal began their 2026-27 UEFA Nations League campaign with a 1-0 home win over Wales, thanks to Joao Felix's early goal in the first match under coach Jorge Jesus. The victory highlights Portugal's intent to rebound from their World Cup exit and maintain dominance in a tough group that also features Norway and Denmark.

Portugal opened their 2026-27 UEFA Nations League campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Wales in Lisbon on Saturday, as Joao Felix scored the decisive goal in a match marked by Cristiano Ronaldo’s missed opportunities and a Welsh late rally. The game took place at the Estádio José Alvalade and was the first under new Portugal coach Jorge Jesus.

Felix’s goal came in the 22nd minute when his powerful shot from outside the penalty area clipped off Wales captain Ben Davies and deflected past goalkeeper Danny Ward. Despite the deflection, Portugal’s dominance throughout the match was clear—they registered 23 shots compared to Wales’ five and controlled possession for much of the game. Portugal’s Bruno Fernandes described the result simply: “We scored one, and we didn’t concede.”

Ronaldo, playing his 234th match for Portugal, was central to the home team’s attack but was unable to find the net. The 41-year-old striker, who recently extended his international career following a disappointing World Cup campaign, showed glimpses of his usual threat but was frustrated by missed chances and one goal ruled out for offside after a VAR review. He was substituted in the 67th minute, after which Portugal’s control waned and the Welsh began to press for an equalizer.

Wales, ranked 38th in the world and facing a challenging group that includes Portugal, Norway, and Denmark, showed resilience despite missing key players such as Harry Wilson and Joe Rodon due to injuries, and starting keeper Karl Darlow being replaced by Danny Ward. Under new manager Craig Bellamy, who stayed on despite rumors of a move to Burnley, Wales sought to use the Nations League to improve their seeding ahead of Euro 2028 qualifying.

Late in the match, Wales twice came close to equalizing. Brennan Johnson chipped the ball over Portugal’s goalkeeper but struck the crossbar, and although Lewis Koumas moved to capitalize on the rebound, Portugal defender Ruben Dias cleared the danger. Midfielder Ethan Ampadu expressed disappointment over the narrow defeat but acknowledged the team’s chances.

Portugal’s opening win follows their recent World Cup exit, where they were eliminated by Spain in the round of 16, and marks the start of their bid to reclaim success in the Nations League, a competition they have won twice since its inception in 2018.

Elsewhere in the Nations League, Norway secured a 3-2 victory over Denmark, with Erling Haaland continuing his strong form by netting two goals for his country.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.