Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has dismissed suggestions that Wednesday’s friendly against Nigeria could be Cristiano Ronaldo’s farewell appearance in front of Portuguese fans.
The 41-year-old is preparing for what could be a record sixth FIFA World Cup appearance, but Martinez said neither Ronaldo nor the rest of the squad are focused on what lies beyond the tournament.
Speaking ahead of Portugal’s final warm-up game before the 2026 World Cup, Martinez praised the veteran forward’s commitment to the national team.
“Our captain sets an example in everything he does,” Martinez said.
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“He gives his all, 24 hours a day, to help the national team. Our captain and the rest of the players are not thinking about the future. We don’t know what can happen in the future because they can get injured and there are decisions that are out of their hands.”
Ronaldo remains Portugal’s all-time leading appearance maker and goalscorer, with 227 caps and 143 goals for his country.
Martinez said the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star remains fully focused on helping Portugal achieve success at the World Cup.
“The focus is on training, being the best, putting the concepts into practice and showing pride in wearing the shirt,” he said.
“That’s the example he sets. His sole aim is to use it for tomorrow to improve.”
The friendly against Nigeria will be Portugal’s final test before opening their World Cup campaign against DR Congo on June 17.
Martinez revealed that all available players are expected to feature against the Super Eagles as he looks to finalise preparations for the tournament.
“The idea is to make eleven substitutions and try to ensure everyone gets some playing time,” he said.
“For five or six of our players it will be their first game. The focus is still on the individual and to give minutes to those that need it. Our number one priority is to get the players on the plane ready for the World Cup.
“Portugal’s strength lies in everyone’s commitment. The responsibility is to prepare the players to help the team. To use their talent to win.”
The Portugal coach also explained why he believes Nigeria will provide ideal preparation for the challenges his team expects to face at the World Cup.
“We have an opportunity to work on aspects that are similar to what we’ll face against Congo,” Martinez said.
“It’s a group of very talented players. We have the structure and discipline to win every game. The statistics speak for themselves: goals, victories.
“Total commitment to pressing high up the pitch and defending quickly – that’s the style, the result of 15 years of work in Portuguese youth football.
“As for tactics, I already said on the first day. The idea is to have tactical flexibility to adapt individual talent within the team’s structure.”
Nigeria and Portugal will face off in Leiria on Wednesday in both teams’ final outing before the start of their respective international commitments.
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