Portugal coach Roberto Martinez says Cristiano Ronaldo caused a technical hiccup for a teammate in the run-up to the 2026 World Cup.
The friendly against Mexico ended 0-0, with Ronaldo absent due to injury, missing a chance to fine-tune with the squad on the Azteca turf.
Martinez stressed that the draw came against a strong opponent and highlighted Paulinho's return to Toluca, who adapted quickly to the group. He also praised Vitinha’s performance in midfield.
“I am satisfied with the five days of preparations we had, and with the result against a strong side,” the coach told reporters, via Abola. “The game was tough and full of challenges, but from our perspective it was important to see if a team that made seven changes at halftime could maintain its playing style, and what I saw was positive.”
Martinez added that Paulinho’s return did not surprise him, but what did was his speed of integration and how he fit into the locker room. He noted that in another national team, Paulinho would likely be a regular option if Ronaldo were not present.
Regarding Vitinha, Martinez described him as a highly capable player who defends, builds, and drives play forward—crucial in moments when the team holds or advances the ball. He also mentioned that Gonçalo Ramos remains a key option, given Ronaldo’s status, with Ramos having recently been part of the Champions League-winning PSG squad last season.
Portugal heads into World Cup 2026 in Group 11 with Uzbekistan and Colombia, plus a playoff winner yet to be determined, a group that promises a tough but navigable path.
