Portugal vs. DR Congo: Roberto Martinez’s Comments After a Disappointing Draw

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez said his side must raise their level after a disappointing draw in the FIFA World Cup, especially since legendary striker Cristiano Ronaldo failed to score.

Despite the loss to debutants DR Congo, Martinez kept his composure and urged his talented squad to take responsibility, but he did not panic after the single match.

He told Tribal Football, “We do have to improve. We have to be very self‑critical. Our responsibility here, I think, is to assess this match, be self‑critical and that’s the bottom line…the World Cup is like that. We continue our work.”

João Neves gave Portugal an early lead in the sixth minute, but Yoane Wissa levelled for DR Congo with their first ever World Cup goal.

Martinez can look to teams that faltered early yet went on to win titles, such as Argentina and Spain in previous tournaments.

Looking ahead, Cristiano Ronaldo will captain Portugal in their next match against Uzbekistan in Houston on June 23, as the team seeks to silence growing doubts.