Roberto Martinez lauded Portugal’s “complete performance” after their 5-0 victory over Armenia in World Cup qualifying. Goals from Joao Felix, Cristiano Ronaldo (2), and Joao Cancelo highlighted a dominant display. Martinez praised the team’s control, discipline, and attacking intent, emphasizing the importance of a strong start to the campaign. Portugal’s high expected goals (xG) and defensive solidity were key factors in the comprehensive win.
Roberto Martinez expressed his delight following Portugal's emphatic 5-0 victory over Armenia in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. The Portuguese manager described the performance as "complete," highlighting the team's control, discipline, and relentless pursuit of goals.
Portugal's dominant display saw goals from Joao Felix, who continues to impress with his dynamism and skill, and a brace from the evergreen Cristiano Ronaldo, underscoring his enduring quality. Joao Cancelo also added his name to the scoresheet, contributing to a comprehensive victory that sent Portugal to the top of Group F. The scoreline, however, could have been even more emphatic, as Portugal's attacking prowess generated an impressive 6.2 expected goals (xG) from 24 shots, with nine finding the target. Bruno Fernandes was also unlucky, striking the post with a well-placed effort.
While the attack garnered much of the attention, Martinez was equally pleased with his team's defensive solidity. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa was rarely troubled, making only three saves, a testament to the effective protection provided by the defense. This balance between attack and defense was a key factor in Martinez's assessment of the performance as "complete."
"It’s important to start well, to hold on to the game, and we did that," Martinez stated, emphasizing the significance of a positive start to the qualifying campaign. He further elaborated on the team's attitude and control, noting, "The attitude was exemplary, we controlled the game, had a good rhythm, and after scoring the first goal, it was another game we also controlled with great discipline, because we kept trying to score and keep the goal clean."
Martinez's comments reflect a sense of satisfaction with the team's execution of his tactical plan. Portugal's ability to maintain control, create numerous scoring opportunities, and simultaneously restrict Armenia's attacking threat is a promising sign for their World Cup aspirations. The blend of experienced stars like Ronaldo and emerging talents like Felix provides a dynamic and exciting dimension to the team. Their ability to generate so many high-quality chances, as evidenced by the high xG, suggests a well-structured and potent attacking system.
The victory against Armenia provides a solid foundation for Portugal as they embark on their World Cup qualifying journey. However, Martinez will be keen to ensure that his team maintains this level of performance and continues to improve as they face tougher opposition in the future. The focus will be on fine-tuning their attacking efficiency, tightening their defensive organization, and fostering a strong team spirit. With a talented squad and a clear tactical approach, Portugal has the potential to make a significant impact on the world stage.
Portugal's next qualifying match will provide another opportunity to build momentum and solidify their position at the top of Group F. Martinez will be looking for another dominant performance, with a continued emphasis on control, discipline, and a ruthless pursuit of goals. The ultimate aim is to secure a place at the 2026 World Cup and compete for the ultimate prize in international football. The emphatic victory against Armenia has set the stage for an exciting and challenging journey ahead. The fans will be hoping that the team can maintain this level of performance and continue to entertain with their attacking flair and defensive solidity.
The Portuguese squad will look to other players to continue their impressive form to secure qualification early. If the squad can continue to perform at their current level, they stand a very good chance of making a deep run in the 2026 World Cup. This is a competition that the nation and Ronaldo craves and one that all the players are striving for. The competition for places will certainly drive performance in the team which is great news for the coach, fans and the nation.