Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has defended his decision not to rest Cristiano Ronaldo in their final group game against Colombia, saying the star forward is 'strong' and wanted to play.
Summary
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has defended his decision not to rest Cristiano Ronaldo in their final group game against Colombia, according to ESPN. Martinez insisted the veteran forward is 'strong' and expressed a desire to play, despite Portugal having already secured qualification for the knockout stages.
The Details
According to ESPN, Martinez addressed the media after the match, explaining his reasoning for fielding Ronaldo from the start. The Portugal boss stated that Ronaldo is 'strong' and that the player himself wanted to be involved. Martinez also highlighted the importance of maintaining rhythm and competitive sharpness, particularly for a player of Ronaldo's stature.
Portugal had already booked their place in the next round before the Colombia clash, leading some to question whether resting key players would have been prudent. However, Martinez opted to start his captain, who played the full 90 minutes in a match that ended in a draw.
The decision comes amid a busy schedule for Portugal, with the knockout stage looming. Critics have pointed to Ronaldo's age—he is 39—and the physical demands of tournament football as reasons for rotation. Yet Martinez remained firm, citing Ronaldo's professionalism and fitness levels.
What It Means
Martinez's stance underscores his reliance on Ronaldo as a talismanic figure, even in dead-rubber fixtures. By keeping him on the pitch, the coach prioritizes continuity and morale over rest. This could have implications for Portugal's knockout campaign, as Ronaldo's minutes accumulate. However, it also signals that Martinez trusts his captain to manage his own workload.
For Ronaldo, the extended playing time offers a chance to build momentum after a relatively quiet group stage. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star will be eager to make a decisive impact in the latter rounds.
As Portugal prepare for their round-of-16 tie, the debate over squad rotation is likely to continue. Martinez's comments suggest he will continue to lean on his experienced core, with Ronaldo central to his plans. For more World Cup news, visit our dedicated page.
Source: Reported by ESPN. Summary compiled by NinetyMins.
