Martínez: 'There's No Perfect Game at the World Cup'

Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez shared his thoughts after his side's 2-1 victory over Croatia in the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup. “World Cups are like that. This is no longer the group stage. When you play well, you have to take your chances. The first half was brilliant in every way – we read the game perfectly, created chances in the final third. But against teams like Croatia, danger is always present, and that's when collective qualities become crucial. We conceded a goal but kept believing. The players from the bench were ready, and that mentality wins matches. There's no such thing as a perfect game at the World Cup. You need talent, discipline, and heart. The lads enjoyed representing Portugal. We played for Ricardo Carvalho's father and in memory of our Diogo Jota and André,” Martínez was quoted as saying by Record.