Martinez: This is Portugal's secret, and Cristiano paved the way for us

The coach of the Portuguese national team, Roberto Martinez, appeared in press statements after qualifying for the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 by defeating Slovenia on penalties after a goalless draw.

Martinez said: “The secret Portugal is Diogo Costa, today he appeared on a different level. He was amazing in individual situations, and then he had the focus, and his efficiency in saving three penalty kicks, we should be very proud of him.”

< /p>

He added: “Ronaldo missed a penalty kick and then was decisive when the penalty shootout began, paving the way for us.”

He continued: “It was a victory for unity.” The team, and Cristiano is our leader and he showed that in life and in football, there are difficult moments and we cannot give up, we have to continue, and that was evidence of what to do when things are not going well.”

< br>

He stressed: “We have started a new tournament. We said yesterday that the tournament now has different details, you can win on penalties, you can create moments of individual quality, but the team played very well. We worked very well.” The energy, strength and passion in the locker room to win a match like this is unbelievable.”

He concluded: “When Slovenia kept a clean sheet after 90 minutes, it was difficult for us. Staying focused, we saw a team full of pride and strength and tried everything. We deserved to win, but matches like this happen. We are in the quarter-finals and I think the fans have a night to celebrate.”