SPARKLING NEW FACES DELIGHT MARTINEZ

Portugal coach says squad's depth will be crucial as they prepare for 2026 World Cup

- 

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez hailed his squad's improved depth, competitiveness and preparation following Euro 2024, after they strolled past Poland on Oct 12 to maintain their perfect Nations League start.

Portugal dominated Poland as Bernardo Silva and Cristiano Ronaldo put the visitors 2-0 up at the break. Poland midfielder Piotr Zielinski pulled a goal back, but Jan Bednarek's own goal made it 3-1.

Portugal exited the European Championship after a penalty shoot-out defeat by France in the quarter-finals, but Martinez said their focus was now firmly on building towards the World Cup in 2026.

“We have more players (now), the competitiveness for what we are working on is growing. We are an even better prepared team after the European Championship,” Martinez told broadcaster RTP3.

“Our focus and total objective is the World Cup. I am happy. The attitude was incredible, the players' personality was fantastic in a difficult stadium. For us, it is a very important performance.

“We don't want to concede goals, but the performance was very good.