The "Noise That Doesn't Get In" and "Exemplary Ronaldo": Roberto Martínez Previews Uzbekistan Clash

The deluge of criticism aimed at the national team following their 1-1 draw with DR Congo in the World Cup opener will have no bearing on the squad's performance against Uzbekistan. This assurance came from head coach Roberto Martínez during his pre-match press conference in Houston.

"I haven't had a quiet game since my first day in Portugal. We've already shown that the team is experienced, focused, and responsible, and we've reached a good level. We're in a World Cup. There's a lot of noise here, and it's part of it. For us, the human aspect is very important. It's about understanding who is and isn't with the national team. But what's important in the locker room is to show attitude, have self-criticism to improve, and be ready. It's 22 days of work, and the noise doesn't get in," he declared.

Many of the criticisms were directed at Cristiano Ronaldo, and the captain was defended by Martínez.

"He is an example, he is a captain. He reacts like a captain, with a lot of experience. We are talking about someone who has been defending and representing the national team for 21 years. He has an incredible hunger to keep improving and to help the group. He is an example in the locker room," he expressed.