Roberto Martinez comes out in defense of Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of EURO 2024 match vs Turkey

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has slammed reporters for their questions regarding superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. The 39-year-old played in the opening match of the tournament against Czechia. 

The Portuguese team won 2-1 and are second in the table behind Turkey whom they face next. Ahead of the game, Martinez was asked if Ronaldo will be able to play the entire 90 mins considering he is now close to 40. 

The Portugal coach replied, “You know how many minutes he played last season? You're talking about the environment, but this is the experience. There is no other player who has played in six Europeans, it is important to understand what each player brings to the team. Cristiano brings knowledge, experience, goal opportunities, movement in the area."

‘He deserves to be selected’ Thunders Portugal coach over Ronaldo doubts 

There have been lots of questions asked about Cristiano Ronaldo in recent weeks. The Al-Nassr star wasn’t in the best of his form in the first game leading to questions about his age and possible slowing down of reflexes. 

Addressing this, Martinez said, “You have the opportunity to make room but if you want to analyze the data, look what he has done in the last few months. He is in the Selection because he deserves to be.”

While speaking about the top-of-the-table clash against Turkey, the Portuguese manager said, “No longer easy games, but different games. Czechia did not try to play the way she played, but it does. The teams are very competitive, have a level of verticality... the teams want to compete and there are solutions for 90 minutes.”

While lauding the Turkey team, Martinez said, “Turkey has a lot of talent, good defensive structure. It is a very balanced team, all the games are different. Chéquia had a shot framed and scored a goal. But the reaction was very good and now we are prepared for another game.”

Cristiano Ronaldo had won the tournament in 2016 when his side beat France in the finals. The 39-year-old before the tournament had said, “I firmly believe that this team will bring a lot of joy to the Portuguese fans, beginning with this EURO. However, the best generation of players are always those who win trophies. I hope this national team will win. It's an incredibly talented squad."