Portugal drew 0:0 against Colombia in their final FIFA World Cup group match, with coach Martínez attending the subsequent press conference.

Portugal appeared to struggle with intensity early on. What does this result mean going forward?

First of all, this was a very competitive match for both us and Colombia. Both teams were already qualified, and the third match could have been a mere formality, but it wasn't. Both sides focused on winning and actively attacking the opponent's goal.

For us, this was a very valuable test. We came away from the match more mature in every aspect.The match was demanding, and we also discussed the playing conditions. Even when physical condition isn't ideal, you have to try to make the right decisions.

I'm very satisfied with the team's defensive intensity and Diogo Costa's performance. Colombia frequently penetrated the final third, which helped us improve and adjust our structure. We allowed the opponent to play at their desired tempo; they're strong in transitions and creating one-on-one situations, while we needed to control the game and possession—but we didn't manage that well.

When you can't control possession, it diminishes the qualities of some players. Overall, this was a very valuable test. As we've always shown, this team has the ability to reflect and is ready to improve further. Now that the three group matches are over, it's time to take stock and prepare for Croatia. We want to win, we want to win every match 3:0 and completely control the game, but reality isn't like that. The team is ready for the next match.

Now that the knockout stage has begun, can Portugal still consider itself a favorite to win the tournament?

Our thinking hasn't changed. The first phase of the FIFA World Cup is these three matches, and the team had to grow with responsibility—and we did. I'm very satisfied with the players. We gave 21 players the chance to play, and I have full confidence in each and every one. We've qualified, and the group stage is over.

Next, we'll prepare for Croatia, a European team we know very well. Now we're ready to continue pursuing our goal of winning every match. The objective hasn't changed, and our process hasn't changed. Currently, we're focusing on recovery.

Yesterday you said it didn't matter if we finished first or second, but Portugal has one less day of rest, and if they eliminate Croatia, they could face Spain. Are you satisfied with this draw? How can you give a positive assessment? Wouldn't a fairer outcome have been a defeat for Portugal?

Your assessment isn't positive. Today's match met our expectations; the conditions were very demanding, the opponent was different, and we needed a match like this.

The team's attitude and commitment weren't the issue, but the opponent also had quality.Sometimes it's crucial to defend the penalty area, and Diogo Costa's performance was outstanding and very important. Now we need to improve in some areas to prepare for Croatia.

Whether we won or lost today wouldn't have directly helped us win the FIFA World Cup. If the goal is to play eight matches, then which path we take doesn't play an essential role. We want to win, and so does the opponent. It was a very open match, even more open than we expected. Colombia is excellent at using transitions and physical duels.

You always say this is the first phase of the FIFA World Cup, and now we're entering a new phase. Is this Portuguese team more confident or more cautious from now on?

That's a good question. Without doubt, we're more confident and better prepared.We've faced difficulties and made progress. Mentally, in terms of responsibility and trust, we're stronger and more united. This is part of the growth process. We need to review the three group matches, identify our shortcomings, and retain the positive aspects. Twenty-one players had the chance to play, and I think the team is ready for the next match.

Were you surprised by Colombia's performance? Was the draw fair?

Surprised? No. We've known Colombia's quality for a long time. They played well in friendlies against Spain and England, which also gave us insight into their abilities. That's not surprising. But it does show that we needed to bring the match to our desired rhythm. We have many players with strong positional skills and shouldn't have let the match unfold the way it did.

It was a very competitive match, and now we're better prepared. We did more defensive work than expected, but in football this ability is also important. Diogo Costa's performance was excellent, and he's in good form right now.

Were you surprised by Colombia's three significant changes to their starting lineup? How would you also rate the referee?

At international level, we always have to prepare for the entire tactical approach. Regardless of who plays, we have to adapt accordingly. But their changes didn't surprise us; whatever lineup they fielded, their playing style was consistent. Perhaps we didn't bring the match to our desired rhythm, and the match became more fragmented, which Colombia handles excellently.

As for the referee, I have no specific comments. It was a very intense match with a lot of physical contact, but both sides pursued victory.

The next match falls almost on the first anniversary of Jota's death.

That will indeed be difficult; Jota is always in our memories. I wouldn't say it's only difficult because of this timing, but we have to fight for him. We started together, fought side by side, and won the UEFA Nations League together.

It's just another match, but such moments are always complex. However, we're a very strong team, and we'll carry his belief and unwavering determination in our hearts.

Regarding Ronaldo: Did you consider resting him, similar to how Scaloni managed Messi?

We don't compare players. We monitor all data in real time during matches, and the same applies to training. Different positions have different demands. Ronaldo is accustomed to being in the right place at the right time; he's very disciplined on the pitch and can create space for his teammates. His physical and mental condition are both fine.

We may make some adjustments for the next match, but we'll decide based on the information available to us. Some players aren't yet at 100% fitness, but all information is very important to us.

Compare Colombia and Croatia.

The two teams are completely different. One is a European team and the other is a South American team. In terms of their playing philosophy and how they use space, the differences are significant. Colombia's style of play didn't surprise us; we know they like to open up and fragment the match, seek central spaces, and James Rodríguez can create threats in these areas.

Übersetzt von KI.

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