Martinez Hails Icons Ahead of Knockout Match
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has declared that Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric are "above public opinion" as the two former Real Madrid teammates prepare to face off in the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 32. The match, set to take place in Toronto, Canada, will see Portugal take on Croatia, with both superstars chasing their first World Cup trophy.
Ronaldo, 41, and Modric, 40, have enjoyed legendary careers, including multiple La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles together at Real Madrid. Ronaldo played for the club from 2009 to 2021, while Modric represented Madrid from 2012 to 2025. Despite their advanced ages, both remain key figures for their national teams.
"Age Is Just a Number"
Speaking ahead of the match, Martinez emphasized the longevity and impact of both players. "We are talking about players who are above public opinion. They are world icons. The longevity they carry makes them special. Luka Modric, at over 40 years old, continues to play many games. It is the same as our captain, Cristiano Ronaldo," Martinez said, as quoted by Goal.com.
He added, "Age is just a number. What matters is what they do and the importance they have as an example in the dressing room. Modric is an example for millions of athletes and new generations of footballers."
Tournament Form and Milestones
Ronaldo has had a mixed tournament so far, scoring a brace against Uzbekistan but failing to find the net against DR Congo and Colombia, including a goalless draw with the latter. Modric, meanwhile, has not scored in his three appearances but has provided one assist. He also reached a historic milestone by earning his 200th international cap during the tournament.
Both players are yet to win a World Cup, and only one can advance further in the 2026 edition. The knockout clash adds immense pressure, but Martinez remains confident in his team's preparation.
Physical Challenges in Canada
The match will be played in high temperatures in Canada, posing a physical test for the veterans. Martinez downplayed concerns, noting that Portugal prepared under similar conditions. "There are no advantages in the World Cup. Our preparation was to train in Palm Beach with a lot of humidity; here we will also have a lot of heat, but less humidity. The World Cup is demanding, and the team is prepared for everything," he said.
Martinez also acknowledged Croatia's strengths, stating, "We know Croatia very well, they also know our strengths. It is going to be a competitive game, with the importance of it being a knockout game in the World Cup."
