“I have 7 shirts, I didn’t just bring 3” - Portugal coach Roberto Martinez makes promising claim ahead of Euro 2024 campaign
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has asserted confidence in his side's chances of winning the UEFA Euro 2024. He said that his side needs to perform up to expectations in their tournament opener against Czechia on Tuesday, June 18.
The Selecao will begin their Euro 2024 campaign against Czechia at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig on Tuesday. Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. are among the favorites to win the tournament after a stellar qualifying campaign. They won all 10 of their qualifiers, keeping nine clean sheets.
Ahead of their opening game, manager Roberto Martinez said about Portugal's chances of winning the tournament (via Ojogo):
"We need to believe, it's important. Without dreaming, it's difficult. But we have a responsibility to play well. Tomorrow's game is the perfect moment to show that we are ready, to play with the expectations that exist.
"After the first three games we can evaluate if we deserve to stay for more. I have 7 shirts, I didn't just bring 3. But we have to show our level in the three games.”
Portugal has been drawn alongside Czechia, Georgia, and Turkey in Group F at Euro 2024. They come into the tournament with wins against Finland and Ireland and a defeat against Croatia in their friendly matches.
Cristiano Ronaldo set to break record at Euro 2024 with Portugal
Cristiano Ronaldo has broken numerous records over the years and is set to break one more on Tuesday, June 18. If he starts against Czechia, the Portugal captain will become the only player to have featured in six Euros. He already holds the record with five appearances but Euro 2024 will mark his sixth appearance.
If he scores at this edition, the 39-year-old will also become the first player to score in six European championships. He won the Golden Boot at Euro 2020, having scored five goals. Ronaldo was level on goals with Patrick Schick but his assist led to him winning the award.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner had a stellar 2023-24 campaign with Al-Nassr, recording 44 goals and 13 assists in 45 games across competitions. He was also the second-highest scorer at the Euro 2024 Qualifiers, scoring 10 goals and providing two assists in nine games.
Ronaldo led Portugal to the Euro 2016 trophy and will hope to add another this time around. It could also be his last major tournament with the Selecao.