Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez has insisted his side is fully prepared for everything they will face ahead of their Round of 32 FIFA World Cup clash against Croatia, www.aclsports.com reports.
Martínez addressed potential rotation options and player availability, including whether Cristiano Ronaldo and Bernardo Silva could feature from the start. However, he stressed that the focus remains on collective readiness.
“What is important now is that we have 21 players who have already played. That means everyone is ready. The minutes are not important. What is important is that all players are ready to help the team, whether starting, finishing, or coming from the bench,” Martínez said.
He dismissed suggestions that facing European opposition offers any advantage, and also addressed the expected hot and humid conditions in Toronto.
“Of course there are no advantages. At the World Cup, every game is competitive and difficult,” he said.
“We are prepared for everything, climate, storms, time zones, travel. The team is ready.”
Martínez pointed to the value of Portugal’s recent matches in shaping tactical adjustments, particularly in defensive phases.
“All matches are different. The Colombia game helped us adjust tactically. What is important is how we defend the final third, the intensity, the resilience, and keeping a clean sheet,” he explained.
Looking ahead to Croatia, he underlined the challenge ahead and the mentality required to progress in the tournament.
“Croatia is a team we know very well. It will be a competitive match. What we need tomorrow is belief and courage. We are ready, and now we need to win.”
Meanwhile, midfielder Vitinha has expressed gratitude for the global support behind the national team and urged fans to continue backing the squad ahead of their knockout tie.
Vitinha highlighted the strong presence of Portuguese supporters across different countries, including Canada, and said the reception has been a major motivation for the team.
“The warmth from Portuguese fans is incredible, whether in Canada, Switzerland, Luxembourg, or the United States. We want to thank them and ask them to support us tomorrow. It will be important for them and for us,” he said.
He stressed the emotional importance of representing the nation on the global stage, highlighting collective motivation rather than individuals.
“We have a lot of motivation and ambition to win tomorrow, not just because of the World Cup, but as a team. We want to win and go to the next stage for our country, our families, our friends, for Diogo Jota, and of course Cristiano as well,” he added.
Vitinha also insisted Portugal must prove their quality on the pitch if they are to progress further in the tournament.
“We really hope that we can go to the next phase, but we have to show we deserve to go through. If we play well, we will be closer to the next stage,” he said.
“We have to step up collectively. If we do that, we are closer to going through.”
