Samu Costa has been confirmed as part of Portugal’s starting XI in their crucial preparation match against Mexico at Estadio Azteca. The match is set to take place on March 28, 2026, as both teams gear up for the upcoming World Cup.

Portugal’s formation features a 4-3-3 setup, while Mexico adopts a compact, possession-oriented structure. This match serves as an essential test for both nations, with Portugal having secured their World Cup spot by topping their qualifying group with 13 points from six matches, including a dominant 9-1 victory against Armenia in their final qualifying match.

In a significant blow to the Portuguese squad, Cristiano Ronaldo has been sidelined due to a minor hamstring injury. Coach Roberto Martinez reassured fans, stating, “The World Cup is not at risk! He is not at risk. It is a minor muscle injury, and we think he can return in a week or two.” This news comes as a relief, given Ronaldo’s pivotal role in the team.

On the other hand, Mexico did not participate in World Cup qualifiers, as they are one of the host nations for the tournament. They recently showcased their attacking prowess by scoring four goals in a friendly against Iceland, indicating their readiness for the World Cup.

Estadio Azteca, with a current capacity of 87,000, has undergone extensive renovations lasting over two years to meet FIFA standards for the tournament. This historic venue will make history in 2026 as the first stadium to host three different World Cup editions.

As the match approaches, fans from both nations are eager to see how their teams perform. The first reactions from the Portuguese camp highlight the importance of this match in fine-tuning their strategies ahead of the World Cup.

Roberto Martinez further emphasized the importance of squad decisions, stating, “Bernardo Silva, it’s a technical decision, based on the medical information that the player’s club provided.” This reflects the careful considerations being made as the tournament draws near.

With both teams looking to solidify their tactics and player fitness, the match at Estadio Azteca promises to be a thrilling encounter, setting the stage for the World Cup.

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