Joao Felix Fires Portugal Past Wales in Jorge Jesus’ First Game
Joao Felix’s deflected 22nd-minute strike gave Portugal a 1-0 Nations League win over Wales at Estadio Jose Alvalade, opening the new Jorge Jesus era with victory.
What we know
- Felix’s effort from distance struck Wales defender Ben Davies and wrong-footed goalkeeper Danny Ward.
- Cristiano Ronaldo returned to the stadium where his senior career started 24 years ago. He missed a volley from close range and later had a second-half finish ruled out for offside.
- Portugal created 13 attempts before the break and pressed Wales aggressively, with Felix saying the players had quickly taken on Jesus’ attacking ideas despite limited preparation time.
- The 26-year-old operated behind the central forward and said he is most effective as a second striker, rather than in a wider role.
- Wales nearly rescued a draw late on when Brennan Johnson struck the bar. Ruben Dias then blocked Lewis Koumas’ rebound attempt.
- Craig Bellamy’s side have now gone five matches without a win in 2026.
Next step: Portugal head to Norway
Jesus will want a sharper finish from his forwards after Portugal failed to convert several openings. The defending Nations League champions face a tougher assignment in Norway on Sunday, September 27.
Felix said Portugal showed the identity expected under their new coach: high pressing, attacking football and sustained pressure. He believes more goals will follow if the team maintain that approach.
