Semedo: The match against Spain is an early final

Nelson Semedo has described Portugal’s last-16 tie with Spain at the 2026 World Cup as a “final before the final”. The two sides meet in Dallas on 6 July.

Portugal reached the knockout stage as runners-up in their group, setting up an early meeting with their Iberian rivals in a match many expected to come later in the tournament.

Semedo, the former Barcelona full-back who now plays for Fenerbahçe, said Portugal go into the game with confidence and know the strengths of their squad. He also said the team have two weeks to prepare and arrive in good spirits.

“We know we have a very difficult game ahead,” he said. “It is a final before the final because both teams can reach the final. I am sure it will be a big match.”

He added that neither side should be seen as a clear favourite and expects a balanced contest. Semedo also pointed to Portugal’s last meeting with Spain, which they won on penalties, and said the team must be ready to suffer and fight until the end to repeat that result.