Pedro Neto is due back on the World Cup stage for Portugal today, with Chelsea’s winger listed for the Group K meeting with Uzbekistan at Houston Stadium at 6pm UK time.
The fixture gives Neto another chance to build tournament rhythm after Chelsea confirmed he is part of Portugal’s squad for his first World Cup. The 26-year-old arrived at the finals with 23 senior caps and recent tournament experience from Euro 2024 and the 2025 Nations League Finals.
For Chelsea, the timing matters. Neto’s summer is not just about Portugal’s progress; it is also another live read on a wide player who should return to Cobham with a sharper competitive edge before the 2026/27 season.
Why Neto’s minutes matter for Chelsea
Chelsea’s own World Cup call-ups and schedule lists Portugal’s next Group K assignment against Uzbekistan before a final group game against Colombia in Miami on Sunday.
Neto missed the 2022 World Cup through injury, so every appearance at this tournament carries an extra layer of significance. Chelsea will want minutes, output and a clean bill of health rather than unnecessary overload, especially with pre-season planning already taking shape.
Portugal opened their group against DR Congo last week. Today’s game should offer a clearer picture of how Neto is being used by Roberto Martinez and whether his pace and directness can become a larger part of Portugal’s knockout-stage push.
