Rafael Leão has everything to be one of the names of the game when Portugal faces Uzbekistan this Tuesday (23), at 2 pm (Brasília time), at the NRG Stadium, in Houston, in the second round of Group K of the 2026 World Cup. After the 1-1 draw in the debut against the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Milan striker appears as an option with speed and dribbling to help the team win again.
Leão, known for his physical explosion and ability to unbalance at speed, should compete for position in attack with Pedro Neto. His entry could provide more depth on the left side, especially in a match where Portugal needs to create clear chances to overcome the opponent’s compact defense.
Probable Portugal lineup with Leão in attack (4-2-3-1)
Diogo Costa; João Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, João Neves; Francisco Conceição (or Bernardo Silva), Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leão (or Pedro Neto); Cristiano Ronaldo.Technical:Roberto Martinez.
The midfield remains strong with Vitinha, João Neves and Bruno Fernandes, feeding the attackers. The return of Rúben Dias in defense gives confidence to Leão and his teammates to advance with freedom.
Uzbekistan will have difficulty marking Leão
Fabio Cannavaro should strengthen his marking on the left side to try to neutralize Rafael Leão. Uzbekistan arrives empty after a 3-1 defeat to Colombia and counts on Abbosbek Fayzullaev and Eldor Shomurodov for dangerous counterattacks.
Uzbekistan’s probable lineup (3-4-2-1)
Utkir Yusupov; Abdukodir Khusanov, Jasurbek Urozov (or Rustam Ashurmatov), Abdurauf Abdullaev; Bekzod Karimov, Aleksandr Mozgovoy, Otabek Shukurov, Farrukh Sayfiev; Abbosbek Fayzullaev, Odiljon Khamrobekov; Eldor Shomurodov.Technical:Fabio Cannavaro.
Predictions indicate Portuguese victory with decisive Lion
Analysis points to Portugal winning 2-0 or 3-0, with Rafael Leão tipped to participate in the goals thanks to his speed. The game is seen as an opportunity for the team to get back on track to winning in the group.
Where to watch
Live broadcast on CazéTV (YouTube), Betano and Prime Video. Stay tuned to Rafael Leão’s dribbles and sprints on sports channels.