Martinez: 'Ronaldo helps Portugal resist pressure'

Coach Roberto Martinez believes Cristiano Ronaldo experience helps Portugal keep grit under crowd pressure in decisive Group K World Cup 2026 match against Colombia.

After two matches, Portugal has 4 points after drawing Congo 0-0 then beating Uzbekistan 5-0. Colombia has 6 points. Portugal needs win at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami today to take top spot.

At pre-match press conference, Martinez said team only focuses on beating Colombia instead of calculating table standings. "In tournament like World Cup, no path is easier. Most important is reaching best state in dressing room, which only comes after win," he said. "We respect Colombia, but goal is continuing performance against Uzbekistan and preparing best for next stage."

Coach Roberto Martinez (black shirt) hugs Cristiano Ronaldo during Portugal 5-0 win over Uzbekistan in Group K World Cup 2026 match at Houston stadium on June 23, 2026. Photo: Reuters

One of most discussed topics is pressure playing in Miami, expected to have large number of Colombia fans. Martinez admitted this will be first time Portugal plays in near-away atmosphere since tournament start.

"We need control emotions like we did against Uzbekistan. Maybe this will be first World Cup match Portugal plays like away game. Good test to prove we can still be ourselves in different environment," he said.

Portugal head coach also praised Ronaldo. According to him, 41-year-old forward brings not only technical quality but also mental support, helping team balance emotions.

"Experience of captain playing 6 World Cups is very useful, helping us avoid getting swept by pressure. Also, we have Man Utd captain, leaders from Man City, Porto, or Al Hilal. Team has very good balance between responsibility, confidence, and desire."

Key moments of Portugal 5-0 Uzbekistan match.

52-year-old manager believes Uzbekistan win not only has tactical meaning but also helps team regain confidence after disappointing draw against Congo. According to him, psychological factor is as important as tactics in major tournaments.

"Many talk about criticism after first match or victory in second, but that does not affect us. Important thing is team learned to control match and control emotions. We are growing after each match," Martinez emphasized.

Key moments of Colombia 1-0 DR Congo match.

Martinez also spent time analyzing opponent. According to him, Colombia is most complete team Portugal faced since World Cup start, thanks to stable tactical system built under coach Nestor Lorenzo. He assessed James Rodriguez, Juan Quintero, Jhon Arias, and Kevin Castano help Colombia control midfield, while Luis Diaz and Luis Suarez create great damage in transitions. Fullbacks Johan Mojica and Daniel Munoz also frequently push high to support attack.

Martinez also said all 26 players are in good physical shape but has not decided starting lineup. According to him, squad depth is one of Portugal greatest strengths.

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