Manchester United duo Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot both featured in Portugal’s final group stage match in the 2026 World Cup.
Despite being billed as one of the favourites to win the tournament, Portugal failed to top their group at the 2026 World Cup.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has stood out for Portugal in their opening matches this summer, but even he failed to have an impact as they drew 0-0 with Colombia in the early hours of Sunday morning.
United defender Diogo Dalot has had limited minutes at the tournament so far, but he came on as a half-time substitute to try and change the momentum of the match.
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Portuguese media react to Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot
Just days after a 5-0 win over Uzbekistan, Fernandes and Co. were held to a goalless draw by Colombia.
CNN Portugal were not impressed by either of United’s players on the pitch, with Fernandes and Dalot both receiving a 5/10 rating.
On Fernandes, they wrote: “Bruno Fernandes had Portugal’s best scoring opportunity. In the 40th minute, he took a powerful shot from inside the Colombian penalty area, but Vargas demonstrated his quick reflexes.
“Beyond this chance, more is expected from the Premier League’s best player.”
On Dalot, they added: “Diogo Dalot came on at halftime to replace Cancelo without much or anything suggesting otherwise.
“Of note is a good cross in the 50th minute and, towards the end, a moment where Dalot chose to pass to Cristiano Ronaldo instead of shooting.”
Portuguese outlet GoalPoint gave Fernandes a 5.1 rating – one of the worst in the Portugal side – while Dalot got a 5.9 rating off the bench.
Finally, Trivela described Portugal’s performance as “poor” and “not dangerous” and pointed out a “lack of defensive recovery from Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, and other forwards.”
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Man United will be desperate to avoid Bruno Fernandes fatigue
United fans know better than most that Fernandes’ injury record is sublime, and that the Portuguese star hates to miss matches.
But after pushing to break the Premier League assist record last season and going straight into a hectic World Cup schedule, United will be hoping that Fernandes does not suffer from fatigue.
Hearing that Fernandes had a “lack of defensive recovery” is unlike the United captain, who usually leaves everything out on the pitch.
Fernandes is a key part of United’s long-term project, and Michael Carrick will want his captain back fresh and recharged this summer ahead of the 2026/27 season.
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