Martinez sends a message of motivation to the “Portugal captains” and justifies Felix to play in the starting team.

The head coach of the Portuguese national team, Roberto Martinez, justified the changes he made in the team, today, Tuesday, in the match against Uzbekistan in the second round of the group stage of the 2026 World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo leads the attack of the Portuguese national teamIn the game against Uzbekistan, while Bernardo Silva sits on the bench, unlike in the first game against the Democratic Republic of Congo, Joao Felix takes his place in the starting line-up.

Ruben Diaz also plays in the center of the Portuguese team’s defense, replacing Tomas Araujo, who participated in the Congo match.

Before the starting whistle, Martinez spoke to the channel.Sports TVExplaining his choice. “We are a team that needs to have the ball and are good at using the inside areas.”

He continued. “I think it was important today to have a player like Felix in the midfield and inject new blood into the starting lineup. Joao and Robin bring this update on top of what we’ve been doing. Today is a day to be calm and proud to play for the national team.”

He said about playing in the starting team of Felix. “We will play against a five-line defense, which is similar to Armenia’s line, and Joao used the space very well against Armenia. He has trained very well and has great skills in tight spaces, which we didn’t use in the first game.

“The players have a lot of experience and they understand the importance of focusing on us. To be ourselves and believe in the quality we have, the efforts we make and be proud of the values ​​of the Portuguese people.”