The Stages We Crave

The National Team faces one of its most crucial nights of the season this Monday in Dallas. The World Cup Round of 16 clash against Spain will be a demanding test for the squad, a stage where there's no room for error and every detail counts.

The victory against Croatia in the previous round reinforced the belief that this team, with its wealth of experience, talent, and confidence in its process, handles pressure well. Even when trailing and facing elimination, Portugal took risks, and that boldness paid off in the end. It was a perfect start to their second World Cup, as our coach called it, securing progression to the next level. And against an opponent who reached a final (2018) and semi-finals (2022) in the last two World Cups.

It was a memorable victory, not only for all the match's incidents but also for the fantastic support from Portuguese fans in the stadium, particularly the Portuguese community in Toronto. Furthermore, it held even greater significance as it occurred on the first anniversary of the passing of Diogo Jota and André Silva. The entire team's tribute was fantastic, and the image of our captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, wearing the number 21 jersey, was truly symbolic.

It's impossible to look at this game against Spain and not recall that fantastic night we experienced in Munich, when we won the Nations League. We'll be up against a formidable opponent, the reigning European champions, in an Iberian derby that promises to be one of the marquee matches of this World Cup.

These are the stages we thrive on, and no team can aspire to greatness without facing and defeating the world's best. We'll be in Dallas with full confidence in achieving a great result, backed by thousands of fans who have followed and supported the National Team in every stadium, as Portugal returns to Texas after two matches in Houston.

This point must be emphasized: the support Portugal has received and the attention it has garnered worldwide are remarkable. I've had the privilege of witnessing, in various district capitals, the success of the "Pintar Portugal" fan zones, with thousands of people gathering to watch the National Team's matches late into the night.

Not to mention the success of other initiatives promoting Portuguese football and the country, such as PFS Miami, which showcased the best of our industry and the influence of Portuguese football.

And this support has made a difference. This Monday, in Dallas, it will make all the difference. Let's go together!