World Cup 2026: Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa urges Ronaldo and Fernandes to step up next time

Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa urged teammates Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes to prepare for the coming matches, emphasizing that the team needs their support to reach the World Cup final.

His comments followed Portugal’s 0‑0 draw with Colombia, a result that allowed Roberto Martínez’s side to finish the group stage of the 2026 tournament on a positive note.

Diogo Costa earned Man of the Match honors for his outstanding performance in goal.

The FC Porto goalkeeper made six crucial saves, preventing several expected goals and keeping Portugal’s chances alive.

With the draw, Portugal will advance to the Round of 32 as the runners‑up of Group K.

After the match, Diogo Costa expressed a preference for team victories over personal accolades, noting that players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes will play key roles on their best days.

He said, “We aimed for a win. I would prefer to exchange the Man of the Match award for a victory. We disrupted the game too much, which was not our intention. Today, I was the one who made a difference; next time it could be Cris, or Bruno, or another player.”

He also highlighted that Roberto Martínez’s squad is fortunate to have world‑class players who have achieved significant success at the highest levels.

He added, “Now we enter the knockout phase, but we possess high‑quality players, individuals who have won Champions Leagues and championships; we have the experience necessary to succeed.”

Diogo Costa has been an outstanding performer for Portugal in recent years, earning 46 caps and contributing to their UEFA Nations League victory in 2024‑25.

He had an impressive season with FC Porto, helping the club secure the Primeira Liga title.