Credit: Breaking Media/Manh Tung

Scott Mason

Tue 31 March 2026 8:10, UK Updated Tue 31 March 2026 8:35, UK

Mateus Fernandes is in line to make his Portugal debut, with the West Ham United player aiming for the World Cup.

After failing to be part of Portugal’s qualifiers, usurping members of the squad that helped the nation reach the tournament will be no easy task.

Those members of the national team have already earned the trust of Martinez, but that does not mean their positions are safe.

Fernandes’ performances in the Premier League this season have earned him that chance, with Nuno Espirito Santo extracting his best qualities this campaign.

However, while Fernandes has been key in West Ham’s fixtures, he will now have the opportunity to do the same on the international level.

Mateus Fernandes to make Portugal debut after West Ham performances

Fernandes has long been part of the Portuguese setup, with him having spent close to five years in the Portugal youth teams.

After impressing for West Ham this season, he will now finally live out his dream of featuring for his country, with his eyes surely set on the World Cup.

Speaking ahead of facing the USA, Martinez said via A Bola: “Between the game against Mexico and the one against the USA, we want to try to ensure that all players get playing time.”

Fernandes did not feature against Mexico, a decision that Nuno would not have minded.

However, with the Portugal manager vowing each of his players will play, that means the Hammers midfielder will certainly be on the pitch for his nation.

With the game taking place in the USA, the fixture will kick-off at midnight U.K. time on Wednesday, 1 April.

Mateus Fernandes has World Cup spot to claim

Although the game against the USA is a friendly, for Fernandes, it is a chance to book himself a ticket to be on Portugal’s World Cup plane.

Before the summer tournament, this is the final international break to impress Martinez, whereby after, he will need to continue at his current level for West Ham.

A motivated and driven midfielder aiming for the World Cup will be a benefit to Nuno; however, he will also be hoping his minutes are limited in his debut.

With relegation on the line for the Irons, limiting the risk of injury to any of his key players will be the foremost thing on the manager’s mind.