Manchester United duo Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot both featured in Portugal’s World Cup quarter-final clash against Spain.
There were a total of seven Manchester United players who reached the Round of 16 in the 2026 World Cup, including Portugal pair Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot.
Less than 24 hours after England duo Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford booked their spot in the quarter-finals, Portugal suffered a late heartbreak and lost 1-0 to Spain.
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Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot match stats for Portugal vs Spain
Red Devils captain Fernandes has had an underwhelming World Cup, and there was even talk of him dropping out of Roberto Martinez’s starting XI.
Fernandes did start for his nation, while Dalot came off the bench in the second half. Neither were able to have an impact, though, before Mikel Merino’s winner in injury time.
| Bruno Fernandes | Match stats vs Spain | Diogo Dalot |
| 90 | Minutes played | 25 |
| 60 | Touches | 13 |
| 76% (35/46) | Passes completed | 88% (7/8) |
| 1 | Key passes | 0 |
| 19 | Possessions lost | 4 |
| 2 | Defensive contributions | 1 |
| 2/5 | Duels won | 1/2 |
Fernandes failed to have an impact in possession, completing just one key pass and losing possession 19 times.
Given that Fernandes broke the Premier League assist record last season, his creativity this tournament has been disappointing.
As for Dalot, he tried to inject some energy into Portugal’s play but was fairly anonymous.
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Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot return to Man United early
Heading into the tournament, Fernandes was dreaming of winning the World Cup this summer and Portugal were among the favourites.
But it has been an extremely disappointing tournament for Portugal.
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The good news from a United perspective is that Fernandes and Dalot will be heading home a lot sooner than many anticipated.
United’s pre-season training begins on July 9. Fernandes and Dalot will be afforded an extended break before their return.
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