Although Neto prefers the right wing, the report says he has played on both sides during recent matches against the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uzbekistan. That flexibility gives Portugal’s coaching staff another way to adjust the attack without making a substitution.
A winger who can switch sides helps preserve width, attack isolated defenders and respond to the flow of a match. For Neto, the challenge is turning that adaptability into consistent influence. Versatility earns trust, but decisive actions are what secure a permanent role.
The report says Portugal’s dominant victory over Uzbekistan helped answer earlier criticism and improved the atmosphere around the squad. That change matters for Neto, who now appears to be entering the Colombia fixture with greater confidence and a clearer tactical purpose.
Cristiano Ronaldo remains central to Portugal’s attacking identity, but Neto offers a different profile: direct running, movement across the front line and the ability to stretch a defence from either side. His contribution may be quieter than the captain’s, yet it could prove important against a Colombia team expected to test Portugal’s structure.
The Group K stakes should sharpen the selection debate. If Portugal need greater control, Neto’s willingness to work across the pitch can help balance the attack. If the match opens up, his pace and width may become even more valuable.
Saturday’s contest is therefore more than a battle for first place. It is a chance for Neto to show that flexibility can become genuine weight in Portugal’s campaign. A strong display could strengthen his case for the matches that follow, especially once the tournament moves into its knockout phase.