Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Mon 30 March 2026 17:10, UK

Mateus Fernandes is still awaiting his first senior cap for Portugal, as the West Ham United midfielder was an unused substitute in their 0-0 draw versus Mexico.

The 21-year-old has been a key player for the Hammers, with his performances being rewarded with a chance to earn his maiden cap for his nation.

Portugal had two friendlies lined up over this break, the first of which came against World Cup co-hosts Mexico, followed by facing the USA.

However, Fernandes would have been disappointed not to be called upon by Roberto Martinez during the fixture against the Mexicans.

While the player will be feeling frustrated, Nuno Espirito Santo will likely be feeling the opposite ahead of West Ham’s Premier League run-in.

Why Nuno will be delighted with Mateus Fernandes’ lack of Portugal minutes

Nuno will want the best for all of his players, but selfishly and for West Ham, he will want as few minutes played between his players during this international break.

The Irons have plenty of players out on national team duty, but Fernandes may be their most important international at the moment.

Since moving from Southampton, the Portuguese midfielder has been a revelation with his qualities, a large part of the Hammers’ recent resurgence up the table.

However, as a crucial period of the season looms, as well as an FA Cup quarter-final, the Irons manager will be happy that one of his core players has been afforded a bit of a rest.

Fernandes has already played more than any other West Ham player outside of Jarrod Bowen, with the potential of fatigue a concern at this stage of the season.

While the Hammers star could get minutes against the USA, the sheer fact that he can no longer play more than 50 per cent of the available minutes this international break is a positive.

When is Fernandes’ next game for Portugal?

Fernandes will be hoping to finally receive an international cap for Portugal, with the midfielder having the chance to do so at midnight U.K. time on Wednesday, 1 April.

Portugal’s game against the USA is taking place at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in the American city of Atlanta, hence the kick-off time.

Nuno will be keeping tabs on the 21-year-old with hopes that if he does play, he comes through the game unfazed.

If Fernandes performs well, the Hammers could be handed an added boost of an even more confident player coming back to E20 upon the return of domestic football.

Meanwhile, Fernandes’ World Cup chances could be increased, too.