Portugal selected its starting eleven for the World Cup group game against Colombia on 27 June 2026. Rafael Leão was not in the line‑up. Bernardo Silva and Nelson Semedo also were omitted. The coach said the changes came because Silva’s role has been reduced.
In the match Cristiano Ronaldo scored, becoming the oldest ever World Cup scorer. Portugal kept the lead and won the game. Leão stayed on the bench. When the final whistle blew he joined his fellow players and took part in the record‑breaking cheers.