World Cup: Portugal Eliminated, Coach Martinez Says Blame Shouldn't Fall on Ronaldo

Portugal's bid for the 2026 World Cup ended in disappointment as they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Spain, failing to advance to the quarterfinals. The decisive goal came in stoppage time from Mikel Merino, leaving Portugal to rue their missed opportunities throughout the match.

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Everyone points the finger at Ronaldo, because it's the easiest thing to do. But honestly, the biggest problem today was not with our forwards. The problem was with the team behind him. We created very few chances, lacked fighting spirit in key moments, and did not provide enough support to the forwards.

Following the loss, Portuguese coach Roberto Martinez defended star player Cristiano Ronaldo, urging that the veteran forward should not be the sole target of criticism. Martinez argued that the team's struggles stemmed from a lack of support and creativity from the midfield and defense, rather than Ronaldo's performance.

"Everyone points the finger at Ronaldo, because it's the easiest thing to do," Martinez said. "But honestly, the biggest problem today was not with our forwards. The problem was with the team behind him. We created very few chances, lacked fighting spirit in key moments, and did not provide enough support to the forwards."

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The responsibility for this loss is mine. We should reflect as a whole team, not let one player take all the blame every time we lose.

Martinez emphasized that no single player can carry a team with limited chances. He accepted full responsibility for the defeat and called for a collective reflection rather than singling out one player. "The responsibility for this loss is mine. We should reflect as a whole team, not let one player take all the blame every time we lose," he stated. The coach also announced his immediate resignation, stating, "If we can't win, there's no point in staying."

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If we can't win, there's no point in staying.