Roberto Martínez is determined to ensure Portugal’s last-16 clash against Croatia is not Cristiano Ronaldo’s “last dance” at the World Cup.
Portugal finished second in Group K, with a 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan and draws with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Colombia.
Ronaldo is now set to play his ninth World Cup knockout match, although he has failed to score in any of the previous eight. In total, this would be his 25th appearance in the tournament.
But he is not the only player who could appear in his final World Cup match, as Luka Modric could also retire depending on the result.
Both players, who played together at Real Madrid between 2012 and 2018, have started all three World Cup matches so far, but Martínez is eager to ensure Ronaldo’s journey continues.
“We are talking about players who are beyond public opinion,” Martínez said.
“Their longevity in football makes them special. This is Luka Modric, who today is over 40 years old, who continues to play an enormous number of games and remains extremely important.
“The same goes for our captain. Anyone who talks about age, age is just a number. What matters is what he does and the example he sets in the locker room.
“They are icons; it is important to have these examples. Let’s hope this is not Ronaldo’s last dance.”
We found you marked in Toronto #VaiDarPortugal | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/eX03OFu971
—Portugal (@selecaoportugal) July 1, 2026
Portugal has made it past the first knockout round in each of its last two major tournaments and is undefeated in three matches coming into this match (1 win, 2 draws).
They have only gone two or more games without losing in the same campaign twice before, in 1966 (four) and 2006 (five).
Portugal has struggled to regain its rhythm so far, but Martínez remains confident that his team will be at its best for the start of the qualifiers.
“The team is very strong, thanks to the unity, talent and commitment we have,” he added. “I have confidence.
“The preparation consisted of the three games we played, with difficult moments where we showed resilience and intensity.
“When you are at a good level, winning is important, but losing is also important. Not losing against Colombia was very important. The World Cup begins [on Thursday]”.
