Ruben Dias returns from injury——the biggest variable for Portugal's defense

In the first round, Portugal was held to a 1-1 draw by the Democratic Republic of Congo, exposing the biggest problem: an unstable defense.

Ruben Dias was absent due to injury, and the center-back pairing consisted of two young players whose lack of experience led to multiple gaps.

The good news is that Ruben Dias is back.

The return of Manchester City's starting center-back will greatly improve Portugal's aerial defense, positional defending, and passing stability from the back.

With him directing the defense from behind, Portugal's defense will improve by at least a level.

But the question is: Ruben Dias has just recovered from injury; how much of his match fitness can he regain?

Facing Colombia's Diaz——the one with extreme speed and strong dribbling ability——can Ruben Dias keep up with his pace?

The duel between the two Diazes will be one of the most exciting highlights of the match.

Portugal's defense has other concerns.

Left-back Mendes has not fully recovered physically and is likely not to start.

The replacement's speed and defensive ability are inferior to Mendes.

Colombia's right-wing attack——whether it's Diaz or Munoz——will focus on attacking that side.

If Portugal wants to win, the defense must keep a clean sheet or concede few goals.

Ruben Dias's form will directly determine whether Portugal can achieve that.

#哥伦比亚VS葡萄牙