The match will be decisive, a clash with clear winners and losers. From unbridled joy on one side to the bittersweet lament of a fado on the other, Portugal and Spain have reached the Final Four of the Nations League. This is more than a game; it is a moment that could shape the draw and set the tone for the rest of the tournament as both sides chase the crown won in the previous edition.
From Qatar… to the Final Four?
Beyond the sport itself, the upcoming fixture carries strategic weight for the people steering the teams and for the broader future decisions. The Asturian coach has yet to renew with the federation and carries a contract that runs through the World Cup period. He has suggested that guiding Spain into the Final Four, with the event scheduled for June 14‑18, 2023, could provide a platform to defend the title and possibly secure Champions status. A victory might free him from his current role soon after the season ends, aligning with transfer market openings in the summer.
️ @LUISENRIQUE21: “We will plan the match as quarter-finals. #Qatar2022. It’s like a finale and it’s a good game to play.”
➡️ “90 minutes and we just have to win. I’m sure we’ll measure it tomorrow”.#VamosSpain | #League of Nations pic.twitter.com/toHYDTleJa
— Spanish Football Team (@SEFutbol) September 26, 2022
The federation has not pushed for a renewed deal with Luis Rubiales or José Francisco Molina, but officials expect the coach to extend his stay if the Braga clash goes Spain’s way. Absent a disastrous run in Qatar, elimination in the group stage would likely trigger a rethink. Within the federation, Rubiales has consistently backed the coach, and the Nations League outcome is expected to determine whether the plan is to keep the technical staff in place or pivot. Marcelino Garcia Toral remains a notable candidate to step in should changes be needed after the Braga match.
Spain arrives at a tense moment after a recent setback in Zaragoza against Switzerland, marking what many see as the weakest opening half of the Luis Enrique era. Two goals conceded from corner situations drew attention to the defense, with Aymeric Laporte unavailable. Midfield adjustments look likely, with a shift to reinforce grit by introducing Rodri for Busquets and reshaping options with Koke and Gavi. The forward line is expected to rely on Sarabia and Asensio, while Morata leads the attacking line.
La Roja failed to win 19 years in Portugal
EFE
Portugal secured a 0-4 victory over the Czech Republic, confirming Cristiano Ronaldo’s participation. He will be joined by Bernardo Silva and Rafael Leao, with Joao Felix set to start from the bench. Fernando Santos will rotate his attacking options, while Cancelo and Nuno Mendes are expected to start on the bench and Ruben Neves will anchor the midfield behind Bruno Fernandes and William Carvalho.
It has been 19 years since Spain last defeated Portugal on Portuguese soil, but a growing worry for Luis Enrique is the state of the pitch. The turf is uneven, preventing a full rehearsal by either side. The Spaniard, maintaining a resolute stance, commented on the defense and errors seen against Switzerland, noting that the strongest line is defense and that there is no single defensive pitch to cling to. He emphasized that forwards must press and threaten, rather than waiting for opportunities to emerge.
He spoke about the opponent: the desire is always to play attractive football, recognizing Portugal’s character and physicality. Portugal has claimed European Championship and Nations League success, and its squad boasts depth and proven performers. The main task for Spain is to respond with cohesion, intensity, and strategic discipline rather than chasing a lone advantage. The only sentiment missing is a sense of relief that Portugal stands as the remaining challenger.