Unwelcome news: Portugal's key player fails to complete a half and leaves the pitch

Portugal will begin its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in just a few days, but the team has been dealt an unsettling setback ahead of the tournament.

Details: Nuno Mendes came on at the start of the second half but failed to make it through even 45 minutes. In the 80th minute, the full-back was forced to leave the pitch, raising concerns for the Portuguese camp.

Another national team has also been hit by bad news, with 27-year-old right-back Jules Koundé suffering a muscle injury during the final friendly against Northern Ireland.

Reminder: The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just around the corner, but frustration is mounting within the France national team and among those surrounding the squad over its biggest star and captain.