Portugal manager Roberto Martinez stated that his team can draw inspiration rather than sadness from the anniversary of Diogo Jota's death, which falls shortly after their World Cup match against Croatia.

Portugal is set to face Croatia in Toronto on July 2, exactly 364 days after Jota tragically passed away in a car accident. While the date could evoke difficult emotions, Martinez expressed confidence in his squad's ability to channel the memory of their former player.

"I think every day is difficult. You are training and there are always moments when Diogo Jota comes into our memory," Martinez said. "I wouldn't say the anniversary is especially difficult – it is a little bit of a celebration. We need to honour Diogo. It is a moment to cherish."

Martinez highlighted Jota's significance to the team, citing their Nations League victory with him as a pivotal moment. "We want to win the World Cup for him," he added. "The anniversary means the game needs to be Diogo Jota's game. It is not a difficult moment. When he is with us we are a stronger team. When we don't win a game, like tonight, we reference that his desire and his belief is always in our presence."

Ronaldo's Role

Martinez also addressed his decision to keep veteran forward Cristiano Ronaldo on the field for full matches, despite a mixed offensive performance. Ronaldo has played 90 minutes in all three of Portugal's games thus far, contributing two goals against Uzbekistan.

When questioned about his continued use of Ronaldo, Martinez stated, "Cristiano is used to being in the right place at the right time. That is a question of mentally being strong and always being disciplined in his position and opening space for our attacking patterns. It is not an issue physically or mentally for Cristiano in today's game to play 90. Maybe next game we need to make a change (to Ronaldo's minutes on the pitch) but it is like any other player."

Portugal secured their place in the round of 32 by finishing second in Group K after a 0-0 draw with Colombia. They will now face Croatia in Toronto.