Nelson Semedo
PortugalDefenderFenerbahceNelson Semedo goes into World Cup 2026 as a defender who can steady the back line for Portugal. He brings 48 caps into the tournament. Fenerbahce provides his recent club rhythm before the tournament. The focus is body shape, recovery runs, aerial work and decisions under pressure.
Group K
Jun 17, 2026vs Congo DR - 12:00 PM CDT
Quick Facts
Nelson Semedo and Portugal World Cup 2026 Squad
Portugal selected Nelson Semedo for World Cup 2026 with a clear football task. As a defender, he can protect the channel, win first contact and keep clearances controlled.
Semedo is part of a group of 9 defenders, so the opponent and match state can affect his minutes.
International Record
Nelson Semedo brings 48 caps into the tournament.
Semedo's senior international timeline dates back to 2015, which gives the record more weight than a simple squad listing.
International Record
- International record: Nelson Semedo enters the tournament with 48 caps and 0 goals for Portugal.
- World Cup 2026 role: Portugal list Nelson Semedo as a defender, with minutes linked to form, workload and game state.
- Group opponents: Portugal face Congo DR, Uzbekistan and Colombia in the group stage.
Playing Style and Strengths
Semedo's World Cup value starts with body shape, recovery runs, aerial work and decisions under pressure.
Semedo's first pass out of defence can help the team breathe after a long spell without the ball.
- Duel timing
- Compact spacing
- Set-piece defending
- First pass out
- Cover runs
- Box protection
World Cup 2026 Fixtures
Portugal start against Congo DR on 17 June 2026 in Houston. For Semedo, the first match is a direct test of match rhythm and role clarity.
Uzbekistan follow on 23 June 2026 in Houston. For Semedo, the second fixture can quickly change the selection picture if the opener leaves Portugal chasing points or protecting workload.
| Kickoff | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Jun 17, 202612:00 PM CDT | Congo DR | Houston Stadium, Houston |
| Jun 23, 202612:00 PM CDT |  Uzbekistan | Houston Stadium, Houston |
| Jun 27, 20267:30 PM EDT |  Colombia | Miami Stadium, Miami |
Dates and kickoff times above are shown in the venue timezone.
Recent Form
Nelson Semedo played 26 Super Lig matches for Fenerbahce in 2025/26, scoring 1 goal and providing 3 assists.
Semedo's latest checked appearance came on May 17, 2026, with 28 minutes in Fenerbahce versus Eyupspor.
Career Stats
Nelson Semedo brings 48 caps into the tournament.
For Portugal, the numbers guide the selection picture, but they do not replace match readiness. The opener still has to fit Semedo's form and the opponent's plan.
| Field | Verified value |
|---|---|
| Team | Portugal |
| Position | Defender |
| Club | Fenerbahce |
| Caps | 48 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Born | 16 November 1993 |
World Cup 2026 Role
Nelson Semedo enters World Cup 2026 with Portugal as a defender. The senior record stands at 48 caps and 0 goals. Match role, form and group-stage needs will shape his minutes.
Portugal will judge him through training rhythm before the tournament. The useful signs are duel timing, spacing and the first pass forward.
Portugal start against Congo DR on Jun 17, 2026 in Houston. Uzbekistan and Colombia come next in the group. The match order can affect workload and selection.
FAQ
Is Nelson Semedo in the Portugal World Cup 2026 squad?
Yes. Nelson Semedo is in Portugal's World Cup 2026 squad in the checked player data.
What position does Nelson Semedo play?
He is listed as a defender for Portugal.
How many international caps and goals does Nelson Semedo have?
He enters World Cup 2026 with 48 caps for Portugal.
Who are Portugal's World Cup 2026 group opponents?
Portugal face Congo DR, Uzbekistan and Colombia in the group stage.
When is Nelson Semedo's first World Cup 2026 match?
Portugal start against Congo DR on 17 June 2026 in Houston.
What is Nelson Semedo's latest club form?
He plays for Fenerbahce in the checked player facts.
More Portugal World Cup 2026 Player Profiles
Explore more Portugal squad profiles, including teammates who can share minutes, supply service or affect the same match plan.
Group K Table
| # | Team | P | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Colombia | 3 | 3 | 7 |
| 2 | Portugal | 3 | 5 | 5 |
| 3 | Congo DR | 3 | 1 | 4 |
| 4 | Uzbekistan | 3 | -9 | 0 |