“We Lost Discipline After 20 Minutes” — Martinez Targets Fix vs Uzbekistan

Portugal must beat Uzbekistan to stay in knockout race, says Martinez

Portugal coach admits his side lost structure early vs DR Congo. With Colombia top of Group K after a 3-1 win, Martinez says beating Uzbekistan is key to reaching the knockout phase.

Roberto Martinez says Portugal aren’t feeling any pressure before the Uzbekistan game...

The coach said the team brushed off the criticism from their 1-1 opener against DR Congo, and the squad’s unity is actually tighter now as they prepare for match two.

Portugal dominated possession against the Africans but created little, managing just seven shots and only one on target, Joao Neves’ header in the 6th minute.

Speaking Monday, Martinez said Portugal began the DR Congo game well but lost their shape and discipline after the first 20 minutes. He expects that to be fixed against Uzbekistan.

“We are strong and focused,” Martinez ‌said. “And our group is even more united ⁠than before. It is ‌a process. Tension is not part of our team.

“It’s normal to have criticism after a poor result. Sometimes it's unfair or negative, but it is not part of how we prepare.”

Everyone’s fit for the Uzbekistan game except Tomás Araújo, Martinez added. That includes Rúben Dias, who missed the opener.

Martinez also backed Cristiano Ronaldo, after the 41-year-old’s display vs Congo led to calls for him to be dropped to the bench against Uzbekistan.

“We are a team that wants the ball,” Martinez said. “We ‌want to defend and react quickly. We want to counterattack quickly. You need a player that opens up space with movement and Cristiano is one of the best to do that.

XHe is a player who has been defending and playing for his country for a long time and he wants to keep improving for the team. He is really a role model for the team.”

Colombia beat Uzbekistan 3-1 in their first game and now lead Group K. Martinez said Portugal know they need a win to stay level with the South Americans and lock down a spot in the knockout round.

“The feeling of disappointment is one we all have as a team,” Martinez said. “Tomorrow I do feel like we will have a team ⁠that will be ready ⁠to perform for 90 ‌minutes at the level we have.”