Why is Joao Felix benched for Portugal vs Croatia in FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32
(Courtesy : Getty)
Rafael Leao replaced Joao Felix in the starting lineup for Portugal vs Croatia.
Portugal took on Croatia in a feisty Round of 32 clash in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada, on July 2. Head coach Roberto Martinez named a strong starting lineup but made a solitary change, dropping Joao Felix to the bench.
The Al-Nassr attacker, who started the last two games for Selecao das Quinas, was replaced by AC Milan’s Rafael Leao on the left wing for tonight’s match. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Pedro Neto kept his place on the right flank.
Bruno Fernandes started down the middle, and Cristiano Ronaldo led the line for his nation. The latter will be key for his country against a Croatian side which secured two podium finishes in the last three editions.
Also Read: Portugal starting lineup vs Croatia
Why was Joao Felix benched?
Martinez has stuck with his preferred players, among whom is Felix, for most of the expanded 48-team tournament. He did not play a single minute in the opening game against DR Congo, but was brought in for the next match against Uzbekistan. He also played 70 minutes in the draw with Colombia.
However, despite impressing in flashes in both games, he has failed to register a single goal contribution for his side, even in the 5-0 thrashing against Uzbekistan. Leao, on the other hand, found the back of the net in that game despite playing just seven minutes.
As a result, Martinez opted to give Leao a chance to shine in the crucial match. The AC Milan attacker will have the opportunity to take on the Croatian full-backs, who are not the speediest of players in the expanded 48-team tournament.
While Felix is undoubtedly more technical and excels as a playmaker, Leao’s explosive speed and his ability to get behind the defensive line with ease will be a crucial weapon in the Selecao armoury in tonight’s match, with Spain waiting for the winner in the Round of 16.
Why was Joao Felix benched vs Croatia?
He was likely dropped because he failed to register a goal or assist in his two starts, despite showing flashes of quality.
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.