Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez says his side will approach the World Cup knockout stage as the start of a “second World Cup” as they prepare to face Croatia in Friday’s Round of 32 clash in Toronto.
Portugal advanced to the knockout rounds after finishing second in Group K behind Colombia. They opened their campaign with draws against DR Congo and Colombia, while a dominant 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan secured their place in the last 32.
Speaking ahead of the tie, Martinez said the challenges of the group stage had helped prepare his team for the business end of the tournament.
“Tomorrow we begin a second World Cup,” Martinez said. “The preparation during the group stage was very important because we faced three difficult matches.”
The Portuguese coach expects another stern examination against Croatia, who reached the 2018 World Cup final and finished third in 2022.
“We know Croatia very well, and they know our strengths and the quality we have. It will be a very competitive match.”
Martinez also dismissed criticism surrounding his decision to play Cristiano Ronaldo for the full 90 minutes against Colombia, despite calls from Portuguese media to give striker Goncalo Ramos more opportunities.
He insisted every player understands their role within the squad and will be ready whenever called upon.
“The important thing is that every player is prepared to help the team, whether they start the match or come off the bench,” he said.
Friday’s encounter is expected to feature an emotional battle between veteran captains Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, and Luka Modric, 40, with one of the two football icons likely making his final World Cup appearance.
Martinez praised both players, saying their influence extends far beyond their age.
“People always talk about age, but age is just a number. What really matters is what they continue to do on the pitch and the example they set for the rest of the squad,” he said.
The match will also carry extra emotional significance for Portugal, who will play just one day before the anniversary of the death of forward Diogo Jota in a car accident.
Midfielder Vitinha said the squad would use Jota’s memory as additional motivation to reach the Round of 16.
“We have every reason to fight for this victory — for our families, for Diogo Jota, for our country and for everyone in Portugal,” Vitinha said. “We’ll give everything we have to beat Croatia and continue our journey.”
