Martinez holds crisis talks with Portugal squad after DR Congo stalemate at World Cup

Roberto Martinez convened an emergency meeting with his Portugal squad at their Florida base after the 2026 World Cup favourites were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo at Houston Stadium, leaving their progression from Group K in serious doubt.

Congo came from behind to claim a famous point against one of the tournament’s fancied sides, and Martinez moved quickly to address the fallout. The squad watched back footage of the stalemate, and the former Everton and Belgium manager spoke directly with senior players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, about what needs to change ahead of their next group fixture against Uzbekistan.

Martinez has already faced criticism for his reluctance to substitute Ronaldo, who struggled to influence the game in Houston. Failing to beat Uzbekistan would leave Portugal in a precarious position heading into the final round of group matches.

Neymar sidelined again for Brazil

Neymar is set to miss Brazil’s Group K clash with Haiti as the Selecao look to recover from a 1-1 opening draw with Morocco in New Jersey. The forward has been managing a calf injury sustained while playing for Santos in the build-up to the tournament and did not feature in the first game. Although he has returned to training, Brazil are taking no risks with their talisman. Endrick or Matheus Cunha could start in place of Brentford’s Igor Thiago, who came under scrutiny for his performance against Morocco.

Scotland boosted by McKenna return

Scotland head into their Group C fixture against Morocco in Boston with a near-full squad available to Steve Clarke. Centre-back Scott McKenna, who missed the 1-0 opening win over Haiti with a calf injury, returned to training at the squad’s Charlotte base, though he sat out the final session before the team flew north on Wednesday.

Scotland sit top of Group C on three points following Morocco and Brazil’s 1-1 draw. After facing Morocco, Clarke’s side — chasing a first-ever knockout-stage appearance — will meet Brazil in Miami on 24 June.