Who could trip up Portugal in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers?

On paper, Portugal should cruise through their World Cup 2026 qualifying group.

With stars like Nuno Mendes, Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha, Rafael Leão and Cristiano Ronaldo, the squad looks stacked. But if international football has taught us anything, it's that no match is ever truly easy. 

Even among confident fans on indian 24bet, there’s talk about possible stumbles. Users and experts alike break down the group with more than just goal tallies in mind — they’re looking at style of play, home advantage, and that unpredictable energy smaller teams bring when facing giants. So let’s look at who might just make life harder for Portugal than expected. 

Teams that could get in the way

Portugal are in Group F, alongside Hungary, Ireland, and Armenia. 

No outright powerhouse there — but also, no guaranteed 5-0 wins either:

• Hungary – Organised, disciplined, and quietly dangerous: Hungary have been building momentum over the past few years. They held France and Germany to draws in Euro 2020 and have proven they can punch above their weight. They play a compact game, focus on structure, and have enough attacking quality to punish mistakes. If Portugal take their foot off the gas, Hungary can absolutely make them pay.
• Ireland – Not flashy, but gritty Ireland’s recent results haven’t been earth-shattering, but this is a team known for fighting until the final whistle. They press hard, they’re physically aggressive, and they’re especially dangerous on set pieces. For Portugal, it’s not just about talent — they’ll have to match Ireland’s work rate or risk getting outplayed on effort alone.
• Armenia – The potential surprise package: They’re not favorites, and that’s exactly what makes them tricky. Armenia can fly under the radar and strike when least expected. They’ve pulled off upsets before and have technically gifted players who can hurt you if given space. Portugal will need to approach this one with focus — no resting starters, no mental lapses.

These aren’t blockbuster opponents, but they’re the kind that force you to stay sharp. If Portugal look too far ahead, they might end up stumbling over what’s right in front of them. 

What Portugal need to watch out for

Even when you’re the strongest team in the group, things can go sideways. 

Here are a few non-obvious risks Portugal should keep in mind:

• 1. Tough away fixtures: Trips to Budapest, Dublin, or Yerevan aren’t just about jet lag — they’re about hostile crowds, uneven pitches, and unfamiliar vibes. Portugal will need to be mentally sharp on the road.
• 2. Injuries at the wrong time: Depth helps, but losing key players — especially in attack or midfield — can change the dynamic fast. A weaker lineup in the wrong game could be the difference between 3 points and 1.
• 3. Overconfidence: This might be the biggest danger of all. Portugal have been caught out before when playing down to their opponents. If they assume wins instead of earning them, they might get a wake-up call.
• 4. Rotation risks: Yes, squad depth is a blessing — but constant rotation can mess with rhythm and chemistry. Managing minutes is smart; over-tinkering is not.

Sometimes the biggest threats aren’t the teams, but the little details you don’t see coming. Portugal will need to treat every match like it matters — because it does. 

So, will Portugal qualify easily?

Probably — but not without being tested. Hungary can frustrate them. Ireland can outfight them. Armenia can sneak up on them. These aren’t dream opponents for an easy cruise. 

They’re the kind of teams that will dig in, disrupt, and make Portugal work for every point.

And honestly? That might be a good thing. Pressure sharpens top teams. If Portugal want to show they’re ready for the World Cup spotlight, these matches are a perfect place to prove it.

The key? Show up with intent. Play like the underdog — even when you’re the favorite. That mindset shift can make all the difference.