Portugal coach Martínez calls Colombia stalemate a 'valuable test', eyes Croatia in last 16

A demanding test for Portugal

Portugal ended their 2026 World Cup group stage with a 0-0 draw against Colombia, a match head coach Roberto Martínez described as a "very valuable test" that his side needed. Speaking on Sport TV, he said the encounter was always going to be physically and tactically demanding because of the hot conditions and the nature of a South American opponent that forces one-against-one duels and an open game. Martínez admitted that his team forced attacks too much and lacked the possession and control he wanted, pointing to the need to involve midfielder Vitinha more in building up play.

It was a very demanding match, we already expected that, with the climatic conditions and playing against a South American team that leads to a broken game, which opens up a lot, with many one-on-one situations. For us it was a very valuable test, we really needed this.

Defensive solidity and keeper heroics

Despite the disjointed performance, Martínez praised his team's character and defensive intensity. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa was singled out for a top-level display that helped keep a clean sheet, with the coach calling it "fantastic" to see his shot-stopper's level. Portugal defended the box well under pressure, as Colombia fired numerous long-range efforts. The ability to react and stay organized was, for Martínez, a sign of growing resilience – exactly the kind of quality needed in a World Cup knockout run.

We showed a lot of character to keep a clean sheet, it was fantastic to see the level of Diogo Costa, the defensive intensity we had, the blocks. A match that will help us a lot to align, adjust and grow.

Ronaldo's fitness and attacking rhythm

Cristiano Ronaldo played the full 90 minutes as the central striker, and Martínez confirmed the captain's physical condition is being monitored live and is "very, very well." The coach stressed the need to better synchronise Ronaldo's movements with the other ten players, treating it as part of the team's ongoing growth. With four days to recover before the last-16 tie, the focus will be on sharpening the attacking patterns that were blunted against Colombia.

Squad rotation and the path to Toronto

Martínez used 21 outfield players across the group stage, giving minutes to squad members who had not yet featured, including Rúben Neves and second-half substitute João Neves. He dismissed concerns about finishing second, saying the objective was simply to qualify, and that winning the group does not guarantee an advantage. Portugal will now travel to Toronto to face Croatia in the round of 16, a fixture Martínez sees as a chance to apply the lessons from the Colombia test.

We tried to win. We need to respect Colombia, they are a very high-quality team. It was very important for us to use the players. We have already used 21 outfield players in the World Cup, which is important. Now it's about adjusting, improving and taking the game where we want, with more possession and better use of individual talent.