Story perspectives

Portugal hopes Dias fit for Congo opener amid beach training.

6/17/2026

Summary

Nunes hopes Dias

Matheus Nunes said he hopes defender Ruben Dias will be fit for Portugal’s World Cup opener against DR Congo on Wednesday.
He noted Dias has been training separately from the squad, raising doubts about his availability.
Nunes explained the team trains on the beach each morning in Florida to adapt to heat before afternoon sessions.
He added he feels comfortable playing both full-back and midfielder, giving coach Roberto Martinez flexibility.

Summary

Nunes defends

Portugal’s squad arrived late in the United States, prompting media to condemn the delay and beach footage.
Critics said the beach scenes resembled a vacation, doubting the team’s readiness.
Assistant coach Nunes rejected the vacation image, saying beach runs were meant to acclimatise players to Houston’s heat and praising Rúben Dias as a leader.
The delayed arrival sparked a social-media outcry in Portugal, with fans urging plans from Roberto Martínez.

Summary

Nunes Backs Ronaldo

Matheus Nunes was first selected by Portugal in September 2021 after turning down Brazil.
He called the World Cup the pinnacle for any player and wants to help 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo win it.
Nunes said facing Brazil in a final would be special because of his ties to both countries.
He recalled playing in Portugal’s sixth division ten years ago and stressed the squad represents ten million people.

History

Historical Context

Portugal’s breakthrough came in 1966 when Eusébio’s nine goals powered the debutants to a third-place finish, the nation’s best World Cup result. Inspired by that legacy, Roberto Martínez has taken Matheus Nunes and Rúben Dias to train on Houston’s beaches to acclimatise to heat before the 2024 opener, hoping to echo the historic surge.

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Nunes hopes Dias

Matheus Nunes said he hopes defender Ruben Dias will be fit for Portugal’s World Cup opener against DR Congo on Wednesday.
He noted Dias has been training separately from the squad, raising doubts about his availability.
Nunes explained the team trains on the beach each morning in Florida to adapt to heat before afternoon sessions.
He added he feels comfortable playing both full-back and midfielder, giving coach Roberto Martinez flexibility.

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