Portugal coach Roberto Martinez defended his team from what he described as “unfair and unjust” criticism after the squad, most notably superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, laboured in a poor opening to their World Cup campaign.
Portugal are one of the major contenders to win this summer’s tournament but were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in Houston last week.
Joao Neves put them in front in the first six minutes but Yoane Wissa equalised for Congo late in the first half and Portugal failed to make their dominance of the ball count.
Martinez was criticised for not withdrawing Ronaldo, who looked out of ideas, firing wide twice in the second half and only having 25 touches over the course of the game.
Martinez said on Monday: “We are playing a World Cup so of course we have a lot of noise and tension, but it’s part of the game.
Portugal are one of the major contenders to win this summer’s tournament but were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in Houston last week.
Joao Neves put them in front in the first six minutes but Yoane Wissa equalised for Congo late in the first half and Portugal failed to make their dominance of the ball count.
Martinez was criticised for not withdrawing Ronaldo, who looked out of ideas, firing wide twice in the second half and only having 25 touches over the course of the game.
Martinez said on Monday: “We are playing a World Cup so of course we have a lot of noise and tension, but it’s part of the game.
3 months ago
