Both Reds start for Portugal

Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot start for Portugal in their Round of 16 clash with Switzerland at the FIFA World Cup.

📋 @B_Fernandes8 and @DalotDiogo have both been named in the starting XI for Portugal's last-16 match v Switzerland 🙌

Best of luck, Reds! 💪#MUFC || #WorldCup https://t.co/7gJVtxrOXh pic.twitter.com/RIrsSaBppJ

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 6, 2022

Both Dalot and Fernandes have provided goal contributions for Fernando Santos’ side as Dalot registered an assist for the opening goal in Portugal’s 2-1 defeat to South Korea, whilst Bruno Fernandes has scored two and assisted two in Portugal’s opening game of the tournament. 

Espírito de grupo incrível, e um grande primeiro passo para alcançar o sonho 🇵🇹❤️ pic.twitter.com/9aRNYsBLEa

— Bruno Fernandes (@B_Fernandes8) November 24, 2022

It will not be an easy game for Portugal as they are against a side, who have proven to be competitive against the bigger nations as they beat France on penalties at the European Championships last year and they defended well against Brazil in the group stages of the 2022 World Cup.

The creativity of Bruno Fernandes will be key to unlocking the Switzerland team, who have recalled United target Yann Sommer after he missed the game against Serbia because of illness. Fernandes has arguably been Portugal’s most influential player at this World Cup as it was his two goals against Uruguay that helped clinch Portugal’s breath in the Last 16.

Excelente jogo de todos nós e qualificação garantida ! Momento especial que recordarei para sempre ao marcar nesta competição 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/yOXY207WTk

— Bruno Fernandes (@B_Fernandes8) November 28, 2022

Diogo Dalot replaces Manchester City’s Joao Cancelo at right-back and the United defender will be important for Portugal as they look to break down Switzerland, and his ability to get up and down the pitch can benefit Portugal as they look to navigate this tricky encounter. 

Former United player, Cristiano Ronaldo has been dropped to the bench for the game against Murat Yakin’s side, which kicks off at 7pm UK time. 

The winner of the game between Portugal and Switzerland will play Morocco, who beat Spain on penalties to book their place in the last eight of the World Cup,