Jordan James: Wales have 'no fear' ahead of Nations League trip to Portugal
September 21, 2026 18:01
WHAT HAPPENED
James highlighted the challenge of facing a Portuguese side that can call on players such as Ruben Dias, João Cancelo, Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, João Neves, Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo. “Obviously they're the best players in the world at the end of the day, you can't really sugarcoat it,” he said. “You can't count us out. We've got a puncher's chance at the end of the day and we're going there to sort of cause an upset.”
KEY CONTEXT
Wales enter the match having returned to Nations League A by winning their League B group in 2024. Their squad has been affected by absences: Joe Rodon and Dylan Levitt were already missing, and Wales have also been hit by the withdrawals of Karl Darlow, Nathan Broadhead and Harry Wilson. The team is seeking a first win since last November's World Cup qualifying victory over North Macedonia.
James, who was 19 when he produced a standout performance as Wales beat Croatia in October 2023, recalled keeping Mateo Kovačić's shirt from that game. He said he does not get rattled by star names, though he admitted he felt “a bit star-struck” lining up against Frank Lampard while playing for Leicester City. On facing Cristiano Ronaldo, James described the prospect as “a bit mad” and praised the longevity of elite players who repeatedly deliver in big moments.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
Wales travel to Lisbon for the Nations League A opener against Portugal on Thursday.