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Bruno Fernandes talks World Cup dream and Portugal’s mission to stay unbeaten in qualifying

Originally posted on HITC | By Dale O'Donnell | Last updated Oct 11, 2025 12:01 PM ET

Bruno Fernandes has outlined Portugal’s priorities ahead of the 2026 World Cup, making it clear where his focus lies.

Fernandes has long been a key figure for both club and country. He’s consistently delivered strong performances for United, and for Portugal, he remains just as important under Roberto Martinez.

While Fernandes’s impact on the national team is undeniable, his club form hasn’t matched that this season. United have had a slow start under Ruben Amorim, sitting 10th in the Premier League with just three wins from their first seven matches. As captain, Fernandes has missed two penalties but also found the net twice.

On the international stage though, things look much brighter. Portugal are unbeaten in qualifying and haven’t lost a match so far under Martinez. Fernandes is now hoping they can maintain that run into next summer’s tournament.

With Portugal preparing to face Cyprus and Slovenia in their final two qualifiers this month, Fernandes spoke about how Portugal have maintained momentum since Euro 2024.

Portugal are already guaranteed top spot in Group A of UEFA World Cup qualifying after winning all eight of their matches so far.

The midfielder said: “We know that we have an obligation to always win games when we play for the national team.”

Bruno Fernandes focused on World Cup glory

Portugal have made a strong start to their qualifying campaign, and the 2026 World Cup will be played across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Fernandes is hoping Portugal can maintain their perfect record through the rest of qualifying. He wants to build that winning mentality ahead of next summer’s tournament.

Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images

The Republic of Ireland are up next for Portugal, and Fernandes has spoken about his dream of lifting the World Cup – a dream he knows is shared by many back home.

“We have to take it game by game, even though we know we want to reach the World Cup as quickly as possible,” Fernandes told Channel 11, as quoted by O Jogo.

“Our main goal is to win every game, and we’re focused on that, knowing that the dream of the World Cup is always present.

“Since I was little, I’ve dreamed of winning the World Cup, and it’s not just my dream – it’s the dream of all Portuguese people. First, we’ll do everything we can to be there; then we’ll do everything we can to make that dream come true.”

There will be huge expectations on Fernandes in 2026 as he leads Portugal into another major tournament.

The same pressure exists at Manchester United where fans are looking at him to help turn things around despite playing deeper under Amorim this season.

If Amorim wants more from him at Old Trafford this season, then maybe he should start watching how Fernandes plays for Portugal against Ireland on Saturday.

Man Utd legend to be part of Republic of Ireland coaching staff

Fernandes isn’t the only United player involved in Portugal’s squad that will take on Ireland this weekend.

Diogo Dalot is also in contention to start, with former United star Cristiano Ronaldo expected to lead the line in attack. But it’s worth noting that another ex-United figure will be present, this time on the opposite side.

John O’Shea, now assistant manager for Ireland, will be hoping to help his side secure a result they badly need to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

O’Shea works under Heimir Hallgrimsson, who is unlikely to remain in charge once his contract expires.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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