The first week of action at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico has inevitably produced a plethora of talking points.

For fans in Florida, the exploits of Portugal, Cape Verde and Curacao will generate more interest as they will be based there during the tournament.

Cape Verde and Curacao went into the World Cup with limited expectations having never previously qualified for the biggest football show on earth.

While Curacao suffered a demoralising 7-1 defeat against Germany in their opening game, Cape Verde upset the odds by holding Spain to a goalless draw.

With neither nation expected to progress too fair this summer, Portugal are Florida’s best hope of hosting this year’s World Cup winners.

However, a disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their first group stage fixture has potentially given Portugal an unwanted travel headache.

Canada beckons after underwhelming performance

Portugal were the favourites to win Group K after being drawn alongside Colombia, DR Congo and Uzbekistan, but things did not go to plan.

Paris Saint-Germain star Joao Neves gave Portugal the lead with a smart header inside six minutes but that was their only effort on target for the entire game.

Newcastle United striker Yoane Wissa equalised in first-half stoppage time and Portugal were unable to edge back in front after the break.

Colombia’s 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan has put them in control of the group and they will now fancy their chances of hanging onto top spot.

Whichever team wins the group would face the third-placed team from Group D, E, I, J or L in Kansas City on July 3.

Finishing second would set up a clash with the runners-up from Group L in Toronto the previous day. 

The Canadian host city is expected to attract thousands of travelling supporters, many of whom will also enjoy the entertainment options available away from the stadium, including restaurants, nightlife and popular online slots platforms that are widely enjoyed across Canada. 

Ghana or Croatia are expected to battle for second place in that group behind England.If Portugal fail to win the group, they would be forced to embark on a trip of more than 1,400 miles for their round of 32 fixture.

Portugal face Ronaldo conundrum

While Cristiano Ronaldo’s status as a Portuguese superstar cannot be understated, he is in danger of tarnishing his legacy.

The 41-year-old is no longer the force of old and his presence in attack appears to be significantly impacting his international teammates.

Manager Roberto Martinez continues to pander to Ronaldo despite the clear evidence that Portugal must move on from him if they are to win the World Cup.

Ronaldo has now gone nine matches at major tournaments without scoring, yet Martinez seems to be unwilling to act in the best interests of the team. 

Former France full-back Gael Clichy hit the nail on the head on the BBC, claiming that Ronaldo's status has a negative impact on other players.

"We said at the beginning of the game that Ronaldo will be helping young players because of his character and experience, but sometimes unconsciously those kinds of players can kind of take too much light," Clichy said.

"I've lived it with some players at Arsenal and Manchester City, where you feel that the player is such an important player, unconsciously he's taking everything from every player. I'm not saying it's right or wrong, but when you take them out, you can see players taking responsibility."

Although Portugal are undoubtedly Florida’s best chance of hosting the World Cup winners this summer, it will not happen unless Martinez takes decisive action.

Using Ronaldo as an impact substitute would release the shackles on Portugal’s other top players and improve their chances of lifting the trophy.

However, if Martinez refuses to accept what the rest of the world can see, their interest in the tournament will be relatively short-lived.