Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez says his side will approach the knockout rounds as the start of a “second World Cup” as they prepare to face Croatia in their Round of 32 clash in Toronto on Friday.
Portugal advanced to the knockout stage after finishing second in Group K, following draws against DR Congo and Colombia and an emphatic 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan.
Speaking ahead of the match, Martinez described the group stage as vital preparation and believes the tournament now enters a completely different phase.
“Tomorrow we begin a second World Cup,” Martinez said. “The preparation during the group stage was very important because we faced three very difficult matches.”
The Portuguese boss expects another stern challenge against Croatia, who finished runners-up at the 2018 World Cup and claimed third place four years later.
“Croatia are a team we know very well, and they know our strengths and qualities too,” Martinez said. “It will be a very competitive match.”
Martinez also dismissed criticism over his decision to play Cristiano Ronaldo for the full 90 minutes in Portugal’s final group-stage draw against Colombia, despite calls from sections of the Portuguese media for Goncalo Ramos to receive more playing time.
The Spaniard 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 on from the bench,” he said.
Friday’s encounter will also see two football icons meet on the World Cup stage, with 41-year-old Ronaldo facing Croatia captain Luka Modric, who is 40. With both veterans nearing the end of their illustrious international careers, one of them is expected to be playing in his final World Cup.
Martinez praised both captains for their professionalism and leadership, saying their influence extends far beyond their age.
“People always talk about age, but age is just a number,” he said. “What matters is what they continue to do on the pitch and the example they set for everyone in the dressing room.”
The match will carry additional emotional significance for Portugal as it comes a day before the anniversary of the death of forward Diogo Jota in a car accident.
Midfielder Vitinha said the team is determined to honour Jota’s memory by securing a place in the Round of 16.
“We have every motivation to win,” Vitinha said. “For our families, for Diogo Jota, for our country and for everyone in Portugal. We will give everything we have to beat Croatia and continue our journey.”
