"Tomorrow we start the second World Cup..." Roberto Martínez Backs Portugal's Credibility Ahead of Croatia Clash

Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez insists his squad is entering the knockout phase of the FIFA World Cup exactly where they wanted to be, with every player prepared to contribute ahead of a heavyweight Round of 32 clash against Croatia in Toronto.

After navigating the group stage unbeaten, Martínez believes the three matches have served their purpose, giving Portugal both valuable minutes across the squad and the opportunity to refine tactical details before the tournament enters its decisive stage.

"Tomorrow we start the second World Cup," Martínez asserted in his pre-match press conference, describing the knockout rounds as an entirely different competition.

"The preparation was the three group-stage matches. We did some things well, we identified areas to improve, and now we have 21 outfield players who have already experienced the World Cup. Everyone is ready."

Much of the pre-match discussion centred on Portugal's squad rotation, with questions raised over whether Gonçalo Ramos should replace Cristiano Ronaldo in the starting lineup and whether Bernardo Silva was ready to return after being rested against Colombia.

Martínez avoided confirming his team selection but explained that he made every decision with the bigger picture in mind.

"We couldn't risk Bernardo Silva against Colombia because of the yellow card situation," he said.

"The minutes players have don't matter. What matters is that every player is ready to help the team, whether they start, come off the bench or stay ready if they're needed."

The Portugal coach also rejected suggestions that limited game time could leave fringe players underprepared.

"There are 26 players, 11 starters and only five substitutions. The important thing is the attitude and pride in representing Portugal. Of course, everyone wants to play more, but our dressing room is full of professionalism. It's not about being satisfied; it's about being ready."

Portugal have already used 21 players during the tournament, which Martínez believes reflects both the strength and unity of his squad.

Despite progressing to the knockout stage, Portugal have faced criticism for their inconsistent displays in the group phase.

Martínez insisted internal reflection has been more important than outside opinion.

"Self-criticism is essential," he said.

"National teams don't have 60 training sessions together like clubs do. Every game and every training session has to help us improve. That's precisely what we have inside the dressing room."

He also dismissed growing doubts surrounding the national side, promising supporters only one thing ahead of Croatia.

"What I can promise the Portuguese people is attitude, effort and all the values that represent Portugal.

"We're united; we're working hard; we're self-critical, and now we need to start a new journey."

Martínez also refused to judge Portugal's tournament before the knockout rounds have even begun.

"The World Cup can only be evaluated when it's over. Right now, I can only judge the commitment and attitude of the players, and that has been outstanding."

Portugal will face Croatia in sweltering conditions in Toronto, where high temperatures and humidity have prompted weather warnings.

However, Martínez dismissed suggestions that the conditions could influence the contest.

"There aren't any advantages at a World Cup," he said.

"We prepared in Palm Beach with similar temperatures and humidity. The team is ready for the weather, the travel, the time zones and everything this tournament throws at us."

Instead, the Portuguese coach expects the match itself to present the biggest challenge.

"We know Croatia very well, and they know us too. It will be a competitive game between two teams that like to control possession and create chances."

Martínez reserved special praise for Croatia captain Luka Modrić, who is expected to face Cristiano Ronaldo in what could be the final World Cup appearance for one of the two veteran icons.

"We're talking about players who are beyond public opinion," Martínez said.

"Luka Modrić and our captain have shown incredible longevity. Age is only a number. What matters is what they continue to do on the pitch and the example they set for younger generations. They're true football icons."

The Portugal coach also highlighted Croatia's collective identity under Zlatko Dalić.

"They've played more than 100 matches together under their coach. Players like Modrić, Kovačić and Gvardiol know exactly who they are as a team.

"Beyond the tactical side, there's also their competitive mentality. For a country of four million people to achieve what they have in recent tournaments is an example for everyone."

Although Portugal could meet Spain in the next round if both sides progress, Martínez refused to entertain thoughts beyond Friday's fixture.

"The complexity of a World Cup doesn't allow you to think about other opponents," he said.

"We're only focused on Croatia. If we continue in the tournament, then we'll think about whoever comes next."

For Martínez, the message before Portugal's biggest test so far is straightforward.

"We don't see ourselves as favourites. The only true favourites are countries that have already won the World Cup because they understand what it takes psychologically.

"We're humble, but we're confident. Tomorrow will be difficult, and we'll need to suffer together, support each other and believe. That's the key if we want to keep moving forward."