Bruno Fernandes Admits Disappointment After Portugal's World Cup Exit

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo (7) and Portugal's Bruno Fernandes (8) (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes admitted he is struggling to accept his team's early exit from the FIFA World Cup after their 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16. Portugal entered the tournament as one of the favourites, especially after winning the 2025 UEFA Nations League and boasting a strong squad led by Cristiano Ronaldo and several Champions League-winning PSG stars.

Fernandes also arrived in top form after an outstanding season with Manchester United, where he scripted the all-time Premier League record for the most assists in a single season.

Taking to Instagram, Fernandes expressed his emotions following Portugal's exit. "Sad, frustrated, and disappointed," Fernandes, 31, wrote. He said the quality of Portugal's squad had given him high hopes of a deep World Cup run. "This group of players raised my expectations high, not only because of their quality, but also because of the incredible team we've built over the years," Fernandes wrote.

Portugal managed just two wins in five matches, beating Uzbekistan and Croatia before being knocked out by Spain. Despite the disappointment, Fernandes thanked everyone who supported the team throughout the tournament. "Thank you to all the players, the coaching staff, and everyone who supported us and helped us every day during the World Cup," he wrote. "To all the Portuguese people, a big thank you for your support and belief."