Portugal were in real danger of missing the World Cup for the first time since 1998, but after scraping through qualification via the play-offs, Cristiano Ronaldo and Co will hope to replicate the glory of the 2016 Euros and 2019 Nations League.
Manager Fernando Santos aims to guide his team to a third trophy in his eight years, although he will be concerned that his side have been largely underwhelming in the last two major tournaments, crashing out in the round of 16 at both Euro 2020 and the 2018 World Cup.
Still, they will be offered a chance for redemption against Uruguay, who ended their World Cup in Russia four years ago. Qatar 2022 is likely to be Ronaldo’s last dance in international football.
The 37-year-old striker is considered the best Portuguese player of all time after making his debut in 2003 at just 18, and he will attempt to make history once again and become the first player to score in five global finals.