What we learned from the Portugal and England games

International football delivered two fascinating stories this weekend. In Lisbon, Jorge Jesus continued his promising start as Portugal manager, while at Wembley, England and Spain produced one of the most entertaining matches of the Nations League so far.

By Diogo Machado, in News, Sport · 28 Sep 2026, 15:03 · 0 Comments

Author: Golo Portugal, Cornelius Poppe, EPA;

Jorge Jesus Brings Back the Best of João Félix

One of the biggest talking points from Portugal's victory over Norway was not the result itself, but the continued resurgence of João Félix under Jorge Jesus. After scoring against Wales and once again looking influential in Portugal's attacking play, Félix appears to be rediscovering the confidence and freedom that made him one of the most exciting young talents in world football.

The relationship between Jorge Jesus and Félix has already become one of the most intriguing aspects of this new Portugal era. Jesus has deployed him in more central areas, often as a support striker rather than pushing him out wide. The result has been a more involved and dangerous Félix, constantly finding spaces between the opposition lines and linking effectively with the rest of the attack.

Another noteworthy detail was Jesus' management of Cristiano Ronaldo. The veteran captain did not occupy the central role that many fans automatically expect, a sign that the new manager may be willing to make pragmatic decisions based on the team's needs rather than reputation alone. However, Jesus has handled the situation with little drama, keeping the focus firmly on collective performance.

As for the match itself, Portugal were generally comfortable. The team controlled possession, created opportunities and looked far more proactive than reactive. There are still issues with finishing, as seen against Wales, where numerous chances went begging, but the attacking intent is undeniable. The pressing is more aggressive, the movement more fluid, and the team appears to be embracing Jesus' philosophy remarkably quickly.

Most importantly, Portugal now look to have a clear direction. The squad remains largely the same as under Roberto Martínez, but there is already a sense that individual talents such as João Félix are benefiting from the coaching change.

England and Spain Deliver a Classic at Wembley

If Portugal's game was about the beginning of a new cycle, England's clash with Spain was about two elite teams testing themselves against the highest level of opposition.

The match ended 3-2 in favour of Spain, but the scoreline barely captures how entertaining the contest was. The world champions struck early through Lamine Yamal, only for England to respond superbly with goals from Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane, turning a deficit into a 2-1 lead before half-time.

England's approach was brave and aggressive. Rather than retreating after taking the lead, they continued to attack Spain and created several dangerous moments. Jude Bellingham was central to much of England's best work, while Gordon and Kane constantly threatened the Spanish defence.

The key moment arrived early in the second half. Kane missed a penalty that would have given England a 3-1 advantage, and from that moment the momentum shifted. Spain equalised through Álex Baena before Mikel Oyarzabal produced the winning goal with a composed finish.

Spain were not flawless, but they demonstrated why they are considered the benchmark in international football. Their possession play remained excellent, their technical quality never dropped, and they consistently punished England's mistakes. Two of their goals came following costly English errors, highlighting the ruthless efficiency that has become a trademark of this Spanish generation.

Despite the defeat, England can take positives. They looked like a talented side going toe-to-toe with the world's best and falling just short. Under Thomas Tuchel, there continues to be signs of a more adventurous England capable of competing with the elite nations.

Looking Ahead

For Portugal, the early signs under Jorge Jesus are encouraging, particularly the revival of João Félix and the team's increasingly attacking identity. For England, defeat to Spain hurts, but the performance suggested they remain serious contenders on the international stage.

If this week showed anything, it is that both teams are evolving. Portugal are searching for a new identity under a new coach, while England are trying to close the gap to a Spanish side that continues to set the standard for international football.