Trincão: "I didn't speak with Luis Suárez to avoid creating problems between us"

Francisco Trincão has opted not to look beyond the group stage of the 2026 World Cup. Ahead of the clash with Colombia, the Sporting winger revealed he hasn't spoken with his Alvalade teammate, Luis Suárez.

"The main idea was to play three games. We knew the World Cup meant focusing on the first three matches, and then we'd assess our position. The focus is entirely on these three games. I actually haven't spoken with Luis Suárez. We deliberately avoided discussing anything to prevent any issues between us. However, Gonçalo Inácio has been more helpful with set pieces; he's a defender and pays more attention to those details. I'm sure we'll talk after the game. Luis is a forward, and so am I, so I won't defend him. On the pitch, we're opponents, but off it, we remain friends," he stated, also praising Pedro Neto, who he mentioned used to get into mischief with him.

"Neto is always a cheerful and fun person; it's impossible to be around him without laughing. I don't think he'll ever change, as it's part of his essence," he added.

"I need to be ready to help in any way possible. We know it will be a tough game, and we must be wary of their transitions. Colombia is different from the teams we've faced so far. We all need to be prepared for a completely different match. We must show them respect. I know one of their players very well and understand we need to be careful. They are very strong in transition, with the ball, and we know it will be a difficult game, unlike the two we've had. It will be very challenging," he continued, referencing Diogo Jota: "I believe he gives us more strength. We feel we have an external force, something different. We need to use that to win our games."

The forward also explained how the temperature and humidity might influence the game: "It might affect the pace of the game, perhaps making it less fast due to the heat. It could have an impact. But we are fully prepared. We've had many days of preparation. The only thing that might change is perhaps the speed. I'm not sure if the ball will be affected, but we are more than ready."

Finally, Trincão was asked about having played with both Messi and Ronaldo: "Similarities? Probably their leadership and how they approach the game. They always want to win and be the best. They've been at the top for 20 years. For me, it's incredible to see Cristiano up close, to witness what he does every day. He always wants Portugal to win."