The Portuguese national team was eliminated in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup by Spain, losing 1-0. But that doesn’t mean it’s too late to look back on some of its previous appearances, which have amassed a history of unusual episodes that go beyond the results on the field. The logistical challenges, the improvised snacks, and the coaches’ quirks offer a glimpse into the peculiar behind-the-scenes world of major soccer tournaments. Shall we take a look?
The Mystery of the Chewing Gum in Qatar
At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the match between Portugal and Ghana was marked by an unusual sight involving Cristiano Ronaldo. During the game, the number 7 was caught on camera putting his hand inside his shorts for a few seconds, removing something that he immediately put in his mouth.
The incident raised questions about what the player was eating right on the field. The matter was clarified days later: it was simply a piece of gum that the forward had tucked into his uniform to chew during the match.
Culinary Essentials for Brazil
Preparing for the World Cup also involves strict dietary and transportation requirements. At the 2014 tournament, held in Brazil, the Portuguese delegation ensured that the staple foods of the team’s diet were shipped from Portugal. Their luggage included about 200 kilograms of cod, 80 kilograms of frozen octopus, 60 kilograms of Carolino rice, and 48 bottles of olive oil.
Scolari’s ‘quirks’
Superstitions are another constant presence in the team’s recent history. Former head coach Luiz Felipe Scolari imposed several of his personal beliefs on the players’ routine. A devotee of Our Lady of Caravaggio, the coach made sure that the image of the saint was always placed in the locker rooms before games.
The Brazilian coach’s quirks extended to the team’s travel routes, even going so far as to force the bus driver to repeat the exact same routes that had preceded previous victories. Whether or not superstitions are involved, the truth is that behind the scenes of a great team, there are always plenty of interesting tidbits!
traveling along exactly the same roundabouts and streets that had preceded previous victories.
traveling along exactly the same roundabouts and streets that had preceded previous victories.
Sometimes, finding the latest news from Lisboa Secreta online is like looking for a needle in a haystack. Not anymore! Bookmark us as a Favorite Source.