Roberto Martínez, head coach of the Portuguese national football team, addressed several critical topics ahead of the match against Armenia. He expressed concern about the media’s focus on Cristiano Ronaldo, who will miss the game due to suspension. Martínez labeled this attention as a “disrespect” to both Ronaldo and his teammates.
Focus on Team Performance Ahead of Portugal vs. Armenia
During the pre-match conference, Martínez emphasized the importance of team unity and self-critique following their recent defeat to Ireland. He believes these experiences help in preparing for subsequent matches, fostering growth and improvement.
Confidence in Playing at Estádio do Dragão
The coach is optimistic about playing at Estádio do Dragão, noting its historical significance for the national team. He highlighted memorable past encounters and the overwhelming support from Portuguese fans, which he believes will motivate the players.
- The team has a well-stabilized dynamic over nearly three years.
- Memorable games have included play-offs from the League of Nations against North Macedonia and Poland.
- The presence of FPF president, Pedro Proença, showcases confidence and unity within the team.
Concerns Regarding Cristiano Ronaldo’s Situation
Martínez mentioned the ongoing discussions about Ronaldo’s recent actions during the match against Denmark. He urged that the FIFA’s decision regarding Ronaldo should be fair, noting that the incident was not a violent offense. The coach stated that any prolonged sanction would be “very unjust.”
Anticipation for Competitive Match Against Armenia
Looking ahead to Armenia, Martínez indicated that the Armenian team should not be underestimated. He praised their solid defense and creativity. The new Armenian coach may not have had extensive time to prepare, but the team is showing notable competitiveness, as evidenced by their recent victory over Ireland.
- Armenia adopts an intelligent playing style with structured defense.
- The team has demonstrated competitiveness in prior matches.
- Martínez respects the improvements made by the Armenian squad under their new leadership.
As the Portuguese team prepares for this significant encounter, the focus remains on teamwork and achieving the necessary results to secure qualification for upcoming tournaments.
