Portuguese Football in English
In line with Portugal’s qualifying campaign thus far, the Seleção got the job done without putting in an exuberant performance in Bratislava last night.
Coach Roberto Martínez and the players spoke as one after the match, emphasising the importance of getting the result while recognising Portugal could have played better.
Portugal took a big step towards qualifying for the 2024 European Championship after beating Slovakia 1-0 in Bratislava.
Lukás Haraslín hit the post in the 42nd minute and it proved to be the turning point with the hosts duly punished a minute later.
Bruno Fernandes scored the decisive goal on his 29th birthday, the playmaker racing into the box and beating Martin Dúbravka from a difficult angle.
The game opened up in the second half but Slovakia were unable to take their chances, the Seleção making it five straight wins without conceding under Roberto Martínez to go five points clear at the top of Group J.
PortuGOAL’s Matthew Marshall reports from Štadión Tehelné pole.
Cristiano Ronaldo was the chosen player at yesterday’s daily Seleção press conference as Roberto Martínez prepares his team for the Euro 2024 double header against Slovakia and Luxembourg.
A relaxed and cheerful Portugal captain said the aim was to win the two games to “practically seal qualification.”
Ronaldo went on to offer his opinion on an array of topics ranging from his rivalry with Messi, reaching the 850-goal mark, his chances of playing at World Cup 2026, the recent controversies in Portuguese club football, and the ascension of the Saudi league.
Roberto Martínez has announced Portugal’s squad for the Euro 2024 qualifiers against Slovakia and Luxembourg.
The Spaniard has opted for continuity with João Cancelo and João Félix called up despite not playing at all this season, while in-form players such as Braga’s Bruma and new Everton striker Beto will feel unlucky to miss out.
The female Seleção drew 0-0 against reigning champions USA in Auckland today and are out of the World Cup.
A magnificent effort by Portugal saw them match the Americans in the first half and stay in the game despite heavy pressure in the second. In stoppage time substitutes Telma Encarnação and Ana Capeta combined, the latter smashing a shot against the post (pictured).
Portugal were centimetres away from sending the 4-time world champions back home.
Francisco Neto and his team can be proud of their efforts in the tournament, providing another demonstration that Portuguese football is well and truly on the map in the women’s game.
