Martinez analyzes confronting Croatia: Cristiano Ronaldo is our captain.

The Portuguese coach praised the opponent, stressing that both nationals have similar style and that ball ownership can be a crucial factor in this confrontation.

Martinez was also asked about the possibility that Cristiano Ronaldo will start the match as a title, but he did not give a clear answer underlining the importance the captain continues to have within the team.

Tomorrow we start our real World, so preparing for three games of group stage was essential. There are things that we have done well and others that we need to improve”.

“Croatia is similar to us, because he likes to own the ball. Both nationals are more dangerous when they have the ball and that's something we need to keep in mind”.

There's no secrets between us after we've faced the League of Nations. I want to appreciate their coach's hard work, which has been at the team's helm for ten years. Modric, Gvardilol and Kovacic are big players”.

“Cristiano Ronaldo remains very important. He's the captain. Age is just a number. He provides an example of what he does in his dressing rooms. It's an example for me, too,”, Martinez declared.

Portugal and Croatia will face the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals in Toronto on July 2nd. /Telegrafi/