Portugal Manager Martinez Called Ronaldo Unique Prior To Scotland’s Match

Portugal boss Roberto Martinez praised Cristiano Ronaldo, 39, highlighting his unwavering dedication to international football as a source of inspiration for his teammates. 

The superstar’s recent arrival in Scotland stirred up excitement among fans, demonstrating his ongoing passion and commitment to representing his country on the world stage. 

Ronaldo’s presence is not just a boost to the team but also serves as a shining example of professionalism and determination for his fellow players to emulate.

Hundreds of people descended on the SMiSA Stadium

For pre-match preparations, Portugal used St. Mirren’s stadium in Paisley rather than Hampden Park, the site of Tuesday’s Nations League encounter between Portugal and Scotland. 

As a result, hundreds of people flocked to the SMiSA Stadium in hopes of spotting Ronaldo.

Martinez said “When you arrive in a stadium, in a place like this, I think you get to know the iconic figure and the career of a player that is unique, There is not another player with more than 200 caps at international level as an example, the number of goals that he’s scored, the trophies that he’s achieved.” 

He added “For me, it’s very easy to manage a player that can help the team to win tomorrow. All the rest is something for all of us to enjoy because it’s a unique case, and I think we can all learn from being close to him.”

Portugal has won all three of its games in Nations League Group A1

Ronaldo received a lot of flak for not scoring as Portugal lost to France in the quarterfinals of the 2024 European Championship. 

Martinez has however kept the Al Nassr forward on the field after he scored his 133rd goal for his country in Saturday’s 3-1 Nations League victory over Poland in Warsaw.

That match was started by Ronaldo, and Martinez promised his supporters he would play against Scotland.

Martinez said “I have no doubt that Cristiano, after 60 minutes (on Saturday) can be involved in the second game. I don’t know if he can start or if he can finish the game, but he can certainly be involved,”

Portugal has won all three of its matches in Group A1 of the Nations League, and three more points in Glasgow will put it just one win away from qualifying for the quarterfinals in March.

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