Roberto Martinez: Portugal's First Three Matches Were Preparation for the Next Phase

Portugal's head coach, Roberto Martinez, has declared that his squad will approach the knockout stage as a "second World Cup" as they prepare to face Croatia in their Round of 16 clash in Toronto. Portugal secured draws against DR Congo and Colombia after an emphatic 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan, finishing second in Group K behind Colombia in a challenging opening phase of the tournament.

"Tomorrow, our second World Cup begins; the preparation was crucial," Martinez stated, referring to the three group stage matches he described as "difficult."

Martinez acknowledged the formidable challenge Croatia presents, noting their second-place finish in 2018 and third in 2022. "Croatia is a team we know very well. They are also aware of our strengths and talent, so it will be a fiercely contested match," he commented.

The Spanish coach faced criticism after Cristiano Ronaldo played the full 90 minutes in the team's final group stage match against Colombia. Portuguese media raised concerns about the lack of playing time for other striker Goncalo Ramos. Martinez dismissed these worries, stating that his "players know what is expected of them and will be ready when called upon. The important thing is for all players to be prepared to play for the team – whether they are in the starting lineup or on the bench," he said.

Much of the on-field focus will be on 41-year-old Ronaldo and his former Real Madrid teammate Luka Modric, 40, as the two captains go head-to-head in a match that could mark the final World Cup appearance for one of them. Martinez lauded both as icons of the sport. "People talk about age, but age is just a number. What matters is what they do and the example they set in the locker room," he said.

The match will carry emotional significance for Portugal, as they take to the pitch a day before the anniversary of forward Diogo Jota's death in a car accident. Midfielder Vitinha stated that honoring Jota's memory would provide additional motivation for the team to secure a spot in the quarterfinals.

"We have all the motivation to win tomorrow . . . for our families, for Diogo Jota, for the entire country, for all of Portugal. That's why we will do our utmost, truly our very best, to defeat Croatia," he said.