On paper, Portugal should have too much for Uzbekistan. A European powerhouse and regular contender at major tournaments, Portugal entered the World Cup expecting to comfortably navigate Group K.
However, a disappointing 1–1 draw with DR Congo in its opener has raised questions. Despite dominating possession, Roberto Martínez’s side struggled to create enough clear-cut chances and often appeared overly reliant on Cristiano Ronaldo, whose influence is no longer what it once was.
