By Treasure Anneth
Portugal opened their Nations League campaign with a 1–0 victory over Wales in Lisbon on Thursday, as João Félix’s first-half goal secured a winning start for new manager Jorge Jesus.
The defending champions returned to competitive action at the Estádio José Alvalade, where Cristiano Ronaldo made his latest appearance for the national side in the stadium where his professional career began with Sporting.
Félix settled the contest in the 22nd minute after his effort from around 20 yards took a deflection off Wales captain Ben Davies before finding the back of the net.
Portugal created several opportunities to increase their advantage, but Wales remained within touching distance throughout the second half.
Ronaldo came close to adding a second shortly after the restart but failed to convert a clear chance. The 41-year-old later appeared to have scored when he put the ball beyond Danny Ward, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside following a VAR review.
The Portuguese continued to threaten, with Rúben Neves and Rúben Dias among those unable to take advantage of further openings.
Wales, competing in the top tier of the Nations League after returning to League A, struggled to register clear chances for much of the match. Lewis Koumas had an early effort ruled out for offside as Craig Bellamy’s side searched for a way back into the contest.
Their best opportunity came 15 minutes from full time when Brennan Johnson’s effort from a difficult angle struck the crossbar.
Koumas then followed up, but Portugal defender Rúben Dias produced a crucial block to prevent Wales from finding an equaliser.
Portugal held on to claim all three points in Jesus’ first competitive match in charge. The result also extended Wales’ run without a victory in 2026.
