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Martinez Defends Ronaldo as Automatic Portugal Starter, Citing Three Pillars

Ronaldo also remains available for the 2026 group stage following a FIFA disciplinary ruling.

Overview

  • Portugal coach Roberto Martínez says Ronaldo’s place is secured by talent, experience and, above all, attitude.
  • Under Martínez, Ronaldo has delivered 25 goals in 30 appearances after shifting fully to a central striker role.
  • Martínez dismisses the idea that a 1,000-goal milestone is a driving target, with reports placing Ronaldo on 955 career goals and under contract at Al-Nassr through 2027.
  • FIFA deferred two games of Ronaldo’s three-match ban under probation, keeping him eligible for Portugal’s World Cup opener if selected.
  • Martínez projects confidence for 2026, saying “If we play it, we win it,” while labeling Portugal contenders and noting a Group K with Uzbekistan, Colombia and an inter-confederation play-off winner.