What is Portugal's strongest playing XI for the 2022 Qatar World Cup?

Portugal are one of the strongest contingents headed to the 2022 Qatar World Cup. Led by the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal's squad depth is inveiable.

The Navegadores lost in the round of 16 against Luis Suarez's Uruguay in the 2018 edition of the tournament in Russia. They will be looking to better that result in Qatar this winter.

This article will aim to form Portugal's strongest playing XI ahead of the showpiece event.

Formation: 4-3-3

Goalkeeper: Diogo Costa

Costa in action against North Macedonia: Knockout Round Play-Offs - 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifier

The FC Porto custodian has been in fine form this season. He has kept four clean sheets in seven games in the Portuguese league and has impressed for the national team as well, when called upon.

Given his form, he should be starting ahead of current No. 1 Rui Patricio. Costa also has excellent sweeping abilities, which could allow the Selecao to play with more flair.

Centre-back: Rúben Dias

Training Session and Press Conference - UEFA Euro 2020: Group F

He is the leader of the pack in defence for both Manchester City and Portugal. The backline looks more assured with Dias in centre-back. His leadership is also important for the Portuguese team.

He is a key player as Dias is not only good at sniffing out counter attacks but also has the potential to score from set-pieces.

Centre-back: Pepe

Pepe in action against Czech Republic: UEFA Nations League - League Path Group 2

The veteran defender brings with him years of experience of playing at the highest level. It will be vital for Selecao in crucial knockout games. Although he was dropped for the latest round of games for being unfit, Pepe is likely to partner Dias in defence for the showpiece event.

Right-back: Diogo Dalot

Dalot in action against Czech Republic: UEFA Nations League - League Path Group 2

What a turn around it has been for the Manchester United right-back. Left to rot in the bench under previous managers at Old Trafford, Dalot has shown imperious form under Erik ten Hag.

He has carried his club form for the international games as well and should be the starting right-back for Portugal at the quadrennial event.

His latest goal in Portugal's 4-0 win over Czech Republic displayed the confidence with which he is playing right now.

Left-back: João Cancelo

Manchester City v Borussia Dortmund: Group G - UEFA Champions League

The versatile defender is a right-back by profession. However, in order to adjust others and cover the left side of the defence in the Manchester City team, Guardiola challenged Cancelo to play at left-back. It has turned out to be a huge success.

He is not only good at defending his corner but is also a massive threat while bombing forward. Cancelo has picked up this season from where he left off last campaign, picking up three assists in two Champions League games this term.

His versatility provides flexibility and his attacking outlet will be key to create an overload in the final third.

Central Defensive-Midfielder: João Palhinha

Palhinha in action against France - UEFA Euro 2020: Group F

What a signing he has been for Fulham. The Craven Cottage outfit has been blessed with a brilliant midfielder, who is currently functioning at the highest level. At 27, he is also at the peak of his power.

Should he maintain his current form, expect Palhinha to start ahead of William Carvalho at the Qatar World Cup.

Central Midfielder: Rúben Neves

Neves in action against Lithuania - UEFA Euro 2020 Qualifier

Speaking of commanding central midfielders, Ruben Neves is a blessing for Portugal. His vision, ability to read games, and leadership with the ball are massive attributes for a Portugal team that need balance in midfield.

He brings calmnes and composure in the middle of the park for the Selecao.

Attacking Midfielder: Bruno Fernandes

Bruno Fernandess ina action against Czech Republic: UEFA Nations League - League Path Group 2

Bruno Fernandes is slowly but surely regaining his old form which made him an unstoppable player in the Premier League last year.

His resurgence comes at the right time for Portugal who will be banking on his creativity through the centre to cut open defences.

Bruno's chemistry with Cristiano Ronaldo, should it click, can win them the entire tournament.

Right-wing: Bernardo Silva

Silva ina action against Czech Republic: UEFA Nations League - League Path Group 2

Bernardo Silva remains a vital cog for club and country. Despite a slow start to the new season, where he has hit two goals in seven games, Silva is a key player for both teams due to his ability to carry the midfield.

He has been excellent for Portugal in the Nations League, having racked up six assists already (one behind Manchester City teammate Kevin De Bruyne)

Expect him to start on the right wing for Portugal.

Left-wing: Rafael Leão

Czech Republic v Portugal: UEFA Nations League - League Path Group 2

He has been the standout player for AC Milan this season.

His directness to attack the goal has made him a standout player. Despite Portugal having array of players to choose from, current form dictates that Leao should definitely be starting for the Selecao.

Center-forward: Cristiano Ronaldo

Ronaldo in action against Czech Republic: UEFA Nations League - League Path Group 2

The Manchester United forward has made a slow start to the new season.

However, few players in football have done or can do what Ronaldo has achieved in big matches. It will be his fifth and possibly final appearance at the World Cup.

The 37-year-old will want to bow out with a winners medal and knowing his drive and desire, expect the lethal Ronaldo to lead the line for Portugal.

About the author

Abel is an European football journalist who focuses primarily on analysis pieces and preview copies at Sportskeeda. A B.Sc degree holder in Economics, he has a previous work experience of 3 years – a year at Opera News Hub where he was promoted as a 'Verified Sports Writer,’ and over two years at Sportskeeda as a revenue-share writer, where his writing skills have ultimately led him to be integrated into the in-house team.

A Manchester United fan who grew up in a family of Red Devils supporters, he started his journey as an ardent football fan in his childhood. He used to spend hours watching the sport with his family and developed a knack for writing about the beautiful game over the years.

He is a huge admirer of Paul Pogba owing to the midfielder's ability to thread passes from anywhere on the pitch and his favorite manager is Jose Mourinho due to the Portuguese's tactical mind. He feels France's triumph in 2018 is his all-time favorite World Cup moment, and reckons Lamine Yamal and Endrick could replicate the rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Abel always strives to verify information, especially statistics, before penning a word and offers constructive but not defamatory criticisms. Apart from Europe's top five leagues, he follows the Eredivisie and the Primeira Liga. He loves to spend his free time playing video games like EA FC and watching movies.

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Edited by Diptanil