Martinez takes Ronaldo off as Portugal rallies for World Cup win

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez finally made a decisive substitution many had called for, taking off Cristiano Ronaldo during a tense World Cup round of 32 match against Croatia. The game was tied 1-1 when Ronaldo, who had just scored Portugal's equalizer from a penalty, was substituted with less than 10 minutes left. His disappointment was evident as his team's tournament hopes hung in the balance.

Ronaldo, at 41, had become the oldest player to score in a World Cup knockout match with his 68th-minute penalty. However, his impact on the game had been limited, with only one touch inside the opposition box in 81 minutes. Martinez opted to bring on Ruben Neves to strengthen the midfield, which had been struggling. This tactical gamble paid off when substitute Goncalo Ramos headed in the winning goal in stoppage time, securing a 2-1 victory for Portugal.

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I think the team did the substitutions, we entered to press to score, and that's what we knew, and at the end ... the coach did very well.

The decision to substitute the team's talisman was a high-stakes move that could have either cemented Martinez's reputation or drawn heavy criticism. Throughout the tournament, Ronaldo's performances had been a subject of intense debate, with criticism focusing on his limited contribution in the final third and defensive work, especially after a goalless draw against Colombia. Despite the controversy, Ronaldo will have at least one more game as he chases his first World Cup title, with Portugal set to face Spain next.

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It's difficult because it's a game if you don't win, you go home. But, for me, especially, I love those type of moments, I love that type of game, I want to play every game like that, I want to be in the big moment.