Portugal vs Wales begins the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League campaign on Thursday, September 24, with the defending champions hosting Wales at Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon.
The League A Group 4 match is scheduled for 7:45 p.m. local time in Portugal, or 18:45 UTC, according to the published fixture details.
Table of Contents
Portugal vs Wales match details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | UEFA Nations League |
| Stage | League A, Group 4 |
| Date | Thursday, September 24, 2026 |
| Venue | Estádio José Alvalade, Lisbon |
| Kickoff | 7:45 p.m. Portugal time |
UEFA lists Portugal against Wales as one of the opening-round fixtures in League A in its Matchday 1 preview, alongside Norway versus Denmark in the same group.
Portugal begins title defence
Portugal enters the match as the Nations League title holder and will be looking to start another league phase with three points at home.
The team’s key names include captain Cristiano Ronaldo and left-back Nuno Mendes, who UEFA identified among the players to watch before the fixture.
Ronaldo also has an opportunity to add to his international scoring record as Portugal begins its latest Nations League campaign.
Wales faces a difficult opening assignment
Wales arrives in Lisbon for a demanding first test against a side that has won two previous editions of the Nations League.
Harry Wilson is among the Welsh players highlighted by UEFA ahead of the game after returning to the national team following an injury absence during the June friendlies.
Wales will also be seeking a stronger start in League A after its previous appearance in the top tier ended with one point from six matches in the 2022-23 competition.
A rematch of the Euro 2016 semi-final
The fixture revives a notable international rivalry from Euro 2016, when Portugal defeated Wales 2-0 in the semi-final in France.
Ronaldo opened the scoring in that match before Nani added Portugal’s second goal, sending the Portuguese side through to the final.
Thursday’s meeting is significant for a different reason, as the teams are beginning a six-match League A group schedule rather than contesting a knockout tie.
What comes next in Group 4
Portugal is scheduled to visit Norway on September 27 before facing Denmark on October 1 and Norway again on October 4, according to its published fixture list and the 2026 Nations League schedule.
Wales will host Denmark on September 27 and then meet Norway on October 1.
The return fixture between Wales and Portugal is scheduled for November 17, giving the group a second meeting between the two nations later in the league phase.
The opening result will help establish the early standings in a group where every point matters for promotion, relegation and qualification for the Nations League knockout rounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Portugal vs Wales being played?
Portugal hosts Wales on Thursday, September 24, 2026.
What time does Portugal vs Wales kick off?
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:45 p.m. in Portugal, or 18:45 UTC.
Where is Portugal vs Wales being played?
The match is scheduled for Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon.
What competition is Portugal vs Wales part of?
It is a UEFA Nations League League A Group 4 fixture.
When did Portugal and Wales last meet in a major competitive match?
Portugal defeated Wales 2-0 in the Euro 2016 semi-final.
Fact-Checked: Key match details, scheduling, competition information and historical context were checked against UEFA’s official fixture and preview information.
Disclaimer: Match details and live status can change if UEFA or the participating teams issue an updated announcement.