Diogo Costa: «Whether there are many or few people, we know the Portuguese will be supporting us»

Diogo Costa, Portugal's starting goalkeeper in their first two 2026 World Cup qualifiers, is eyeing a victory against Colombia, while still acknowledging the dangers posed by their opponents.

«The most important thing is always to win the game. Regardless of the game's importance or the qualification stakes, we are focused on beating Colombia. Luis Díaz? I haven't spoken to him, but Colombia has players who deserve our respect. Not just them, but the collective, and we will show that respect and do everything to win the game,» he stated to reporters.

«Perhaps they won't play with a low block. Or maybe they will… just as we respect them, they also respect us. We need to be ready for whatever is necessary and secure the most important thing, which is the victory,» the FC Porto goalkeeper added.

When asked if this would be a decisive match, Diogo Costa responded: «There must be respect for all national teams. There have been many surprises. All teams deserve our respect. They have their own playing culture.»

Diogo Costa is not concerned about a potential Colombian majority in the stands and highlighted the leaders within the national team, with Cristiano Ronaldo at the forefront.

«We are always grateful for the number of people who support us, but our role is daily work and the game plan. Whether there are many or few people, we know the Portuguese will be supporting us. A generation of leaders? We have a good atmosphere. It's always an advantage, and everyone will bring their necessary experience for the most important thing, which is to win,» he concluded.