Portugal coach Martinez admits lack of attacking variety in draw with Congo

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez admitted his team lacked attacking variation during their 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening 2026 World Cup qualifier. "We started the match very well. Scoring a goal should have been a good moment for us, but it didn't happen. I think we lost a bit of variation in attack, lost fluid transition in possession, and allowed them to find their game again," Martinez stated, as reported by FIFA. Portugal took an early lead in the sixth minute through Joao Neves, but their control gradually waned, allowing Congo to equalize just before halftime via Yoane Wissa. Martinez noted that the equalizer boosted Congo's confidence, making the match significantly more challenging for Portugal. "The confidence they gained after that goal made the game very difficult, but that's how it is in the World Cup," he added. Despite the draw, Martinez expressed satisfaction with his players' resilience. "I am very satisfied with the team's attitude. It was not a matter of lack of commitment or spirit. We kept trying until the end of the match. We can learn and grow a lot from this game," the Spanish coach concluded.

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We started the match very well. Scoring a goal should have been a good moment for us, but it didn't happen. I think we lost a bit of variation in attack, lost fluid transition in possession, and allowed them to find their game again.