Ronaldo has reportedly scored two goals at the tournament and is attempting to extend a historic scoring run across six successive World Cup editions. His selection keeps Portugal’s attacking plan familiar, even with a major creative change behind him.
Bruno Fernandes is expected to operate as the No. 10, with Pedro Neto and Rafael Leão providing width. That structure should give Ronaldo service through central combinations and deliveries from the flanks.
Bernardo’s omission removes one of Portugal’s most experienced possession players. It could also place greater responsibility on Fernandes to connect midfield with the front three and dictate attacks in the final third.
The report says João Neves started Portugal’s first two group matches before appearing as a substitute against Colombia. His reported return suggests manager Roberto Martínez is moving back towards a preferred knockout-stage lineup.
Neves’ energy can help Portugal press higher and protect the defence when their wide players push forward. His selection also allows Fernandes to remain closer to the attack, where Portugal need his passing and late movement.
The decision to leave Bernardo out is still the clearest tactical question. Portugal may gain intensity, but they could lose some control if Croatia force the game into long spells of possession.
Croatia reportedly came through their win over Ghana without new physical problems, yet Gvardiol is set to remain on the bench after also missing the starting lineup in that match. Ivan Perišić is expected to continue in the defensive role used previously.
That choice gives Portugal an obvious area to test. Neto and Leão can stretch Croatia from wide positions, while Ronaldo remains the target inside.
The decisive storyline will be whether Portugal’s refreshed lineup can turn its attacking talent into control, and whether Croatia’s defensive reshuffle can withstand Ronaldo’s threat in the first knockout test.