Rafael Leao punches Chilean player in Lisbon, World Cup participation in doubt

Portugal striker Rafael Leao caused a scandal in pre-World Cup warm-up matches, punching a Chilean player in a match held in Lisbon. The incident raises questions about whether Leao will participate in the World Cup tournament in North America. On the same Saturday evening, several World Cup squads held active warm-up matches.

Portugal's national team striker Rafael Leao became the centre of scandal on Saturday evening in a warm-up match against Chile held in Lisbon, when he punched an opponent in the face. The incident immediately raised the question of whether the star striker will be able to participate in the FIFA World Cup taking place in North America.

Video of the incident spread rapidly on social media, and football circles are now awaiting what punishment will be imposed on Leao. Portugal's team is among the strong contenders heading into the World Cup, but a potential ban for the striker could significantly disrupt the team's plans.

On the same evening, which extended into Sunday morning in Estonian time, other national teams that qualified for the World Cup also held warm-up matches. Many teams have already arrived in North America to acclimatise to the local environment and climate before the tournament begins.