Portugal coach Roberto Martínez has reacted to the draw for the FIFA 2026 World Cup. He refused to label the Seleção as one of the tournament favourites but said the aim is to make history in terms of Portugal’s participation at World Cups to date, citing the third-place finish in 1966 as the reference point.
“I believe we are contenders. Only teams that have won previous World Cups can be considered favourites. We need to grow,” Martínez told reporters at the draw ceremony in Washington, D.C. yesterday.
“Our reference point is 1966 with Eusébio [Portugal finished in third place] and we will strive to do what has never been done before in Portugal’s history. We have won a Euro and the Nations League. It’s important now to fight for our dream.”
“Competitive group”
In yesterday’s draw, Portugal were drawn alongside Colombia and Uzbekistan in Group K. The third opponent will be the winner of the playoff in March 2026 between the Democratic Republic of Congo, Jamaica and New Caledonia.
“Colombia have an amazing team spirit,” said Martínez. “They have competitive players who can adapt to different styles and players with very important roles in big European clubs.
“Uzbekistan are a less well-known team, but they have been fantastically coached by Fabio Cannavaro.
“The playoff winner will come into the tournament in a very positive frame of mind, mentally motivated and believing they are invincible. It’s a very competitive group,” added the Portugal boss.
Extra rest days appreciated
As for the schedule, Martínez was happy about the fact Portugal will only start their campaign a week after the tournament kicks off.
“We’re happy about that because some players will have had very long seasons and need to prepare well and rest.”
Unprecedented adversaries
It is at this point in the article that the plan was to outline Portugal’s head-to-head record versus each of their group opponents at World Cup 2026. But… the Seleção have never faced any of the teams they will play against in the first phase of the tournament.
Related: Portugal 2026 FIFA World Cup draw - Seleção in Group K alongside Uzbekistan and Colombia
