After 16 years in the wilderness, Portugal returned to the World Cup their first appearance since 1986. António Oliveira was the man tasked with guiding them back.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 1 | 3 | 7 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 6 | -1 | 4 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 3 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 7 | -4 | 3 |
Portugal found moments of promise but ultimately fell short of the consistency needed to progress beyond the group stage. With 6 goals in 3 games, they carried a consistent attacking threat throughout.
Portugal endured a difficult group stage, unable to advance despite moments of resistance. Their campaign featured a narrow 2-3 loss to United States, a commanding 4-0 victory over Poland, and a narrow 0-1 loss to Korea Republic. Despite moments of quality, it was not enough to advance, and Portugal's campaign ended at the the group phase.
1won2lost
6scored4conceded
Eliminated in the group stage.
Pauleta led Portugal's attack with 3 goals at the 2002 World Cup.
vs Poland
group stage
Hat-trick by Pauleta 3 goals in 23 minutes.
The tactical mind behind Portugal's 2002 campaign. Leading Portugal at his first World Cup 1 win, 2 losses under Oliveira.
António Oliveira's Portugal employed a defensive strategy, which proved effective in their initial victories but ultimately led to elimination. This approach hindered Pauleta and Rui Costa as top scorers for the team.
