Vitinha: Portugal are World Cup aspirants, not favorites

Portuguese midfielder Vitinha believes his national team possesses the talent to be World Cup contenders but cautioned against labeling them as favorites. "I would say we are title aspirants, we have a very strong team, but we are not favorites; I would not use those words," Vitinha stated at a press conference. He stressed the importance of humility and focusing on immediate challenges rather than long-term outcomes. The Paris Saint-Germain player highlighted the team's high quality, with players competing in top clubs worldwide, suggesting this is perhaps the strongest Portuguese squad ever assembled. However, he tempered expectations, noting that theoretical strength does not guarantee success on the field. The squad has settled into their training base in Palm Beach, Florida, after a warm send-off from Portugal. Vitinha expressed gratitude for the reception in the United States. Portugal's World Cup campaign begins next Wednesday in Houston against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Group K. The team seeks its first World Cup title, a historic achievement that would follow their triumphs in the 2016 European Championship and the 2019 and 2025 Nations League.

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I would say we are title aspirants, we have a very strong team, but we are not favorites; I would not use those words.