Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has surprisingly claimed that his side is not among the favorites for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He was not attempting to deflect pressure from his players, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, but instead sought to make a broader point.
Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal Told They Are Not Among World Cup Favorites
Martinez was speaking to MARCA when he dismissed suggestions that Portugal should be considered among the favorites for the 2026 World Cup. He said the team cannot be regarded as a top contender because it has never won the tournament.
The Spaniard believes countries that have already lifted the World Cup hold a psychological advantage and therefore should be viewed as the front-runners. While he said Portugal can challenge for the trophy, he added:
“There is a difference between being a favourite and being a candidate. I think that only those who have already won a World Cup can be favourites. On a psychological level, they have an advantage.”
Martinez’s comments align with remarks previously made by Ronaldo during a conversation with Piers Morgan earlier this year. The Portugal national team captain also claimed that countries with past World Cup success have an advantage, adding that it would be a shock if Portugal were to win the tournament. He said:
“How many World Cups wins [did] Argentina [have] before Messi? How many? I don’t know. Two times. I think. Yeah, but it’s normal. These countries, they used to win big competitions. Brazil, if they win the World Cup, they will surprise the world. No, if the Portugal win the World Cup, which is possible, they will shock the world. Yes.
“But in my mind, I don’t thinking in that way. Of course you want to win. Yeah. When you compete, you want to win. I’m not I’m honest. For me, I’m not going to change the way I see the things and the way I see the football.”
Portugal has qualified for the 2026 World Cup after topping its group during the qualifiers. Ronaldo was sent off in the penultimate match, but his red-card suspension was later resolved after he served a one-match ban in the final qualifier against Armenia.
The Al-Nassr captain has confirmed he will play in the 2026 edition and will be available from the opening match. The UEFA Nations League winners have been drawn with Uzbekistan and Colombia in the group stage, with New Caledonia, Jamaica, and DR Congo competing for the final spot through qualifying in early 2026.