Portugal Beat Wales 1-0 as João Félix Gives Jorge Jesus Winning Start

Portugal began their UEFA Nations League title defence with a 1-0 victory over Wales in Group A4, giving new manager Jorge Jesus a winning start.

Joao Felix broke the deadlock before half-time, seeing his effort from outside the box take a slight deflection before beating Danny Ward.

 Cristiano Ronaldo had earlier gone close, while Ruben Dias also threatened from a set-piece.

Ronaldo missed a good opportunity to double Portugal’s lead early in the second half before Wales began to grow into the contest. 

Brennan Johnson thought he had a chance to equalise, but VAR upheld the decision not to award a penalty.

Wales came close late on when Johnson’s chipped effort struck the crossbar, while Ruben Dias cleared the rebound off the line. 

Portugal held firm despite the visitors finishing strongly.

The victory extends Portugal’s unbeaten home run to 11 matches and gives them an ideal start in their bid to retain the Nations League. 

Wales, meanwhile, remain without a win in five matches in 2026, increasing pressure on Craig Bellamy.