Portugal Right Back Debate Heats Up Before Spain Clash

Portugal's victory over Croatia has started a big debate among fans. The question is simple: Who should start at right-back in the next game against Spain? João Cancelo or Nelson Semedo?

According to Portugal's recent team selections, João Cancelo has been starting at right-back. But many fans believe Nelson Semedo deserves the spot.

One important fact is often forgotten.

Cancelo's natural position is left-back. He has also played as a right-back for many years, but he is currently on the right because Nuno Mendes has completely made the left-back position his own. According to many football analysts, Nuno Mendes is one of the best left-backs in the world today, making it almost impossible to replace him.

Cancelo's biggest strength is going forward. He creates chances, carries the ball well and helps in attack. However, his defending at right-back has sometimes been questioned. According to many fans, he has made costly defensive mistakes, including one against Colombia that almost punished Portugal.

This is where Nelson Semedo enters the conversation.

Semedo is a natural right-back. According to his career history, he has even played as a right winger at times, which explains why he is comfortable both in attack and defence. His pace, positioning and one-on-one defending make him a different type of full-back from Cancelo.

That is why many supporters believe Semedo should start against Spain. With dangerous wingers expected, Portugal may need a more defensive right-back.

Another surprise is Diogo Dalot. According to the match against Croatia, the Manchester United defender did not play a single minute. That has left many fans wondering where he stands in Roberto Martínez's plans.

The debate is not about who is the better player overall. It is about which player fits the next opponent.

Portugal are lucky to have Cancelo, Semedo, Dalot and Nuno Mendes. Few national teams have that much quality in the full-back positions.

The big question now is whether Roberto Martínez sticks with experience or rewards the specialist. Against Spain, that decision could make all the difference.