Roberto Martinez responds when asked if Portugal have ‘dependence’ on Cristiano Ronaldo after he comes off bench to score winner vs Scotland
Portugal's UEFA Nations League clash against Scotland saw Cristiano Ronaldo come off the bench to score a late winner, prompting questions about Portugal’s reliance on the talismanic forward. Manager Roberto Martinez, however, was quick to downplay the idea of any over-dependence on Ronaldo, though he acknowledged the striker’s undeniable impact.
After the Selecao went down in the first half from a Scott McTominay strike, the 39-year-old marksman came off the bench to net his 901st career goal and lead the nation to a crucial victory. When asked after the game if Portugal have become reliant on Ronaldo, Martinez gave a measured response (via O Jogo):
"Cristiano is an incredible player. There is no dependence, but he is an asset. In front of goal, he is very important, also because of his intelligence in opening up spaces, which allows for more goal opportunities."
However, it came as a surprise when Cristiano Ronaldo started off the bench and Martinez went on to explain his decision.
"Cristiano is in a good moment. It's September, he's played three games, he's scored for his club. We need to protect all the players. Cristiano can't play two 90-minute games in 72 hours," he said. "Today the important thing was that, if he needed to be on the pitch, it was to finish the game and not to start it. I really liked his commitment, he's ready to do what the team needs and be decisive once again."
Meanwhile, Martinez was effusive about the team’s performance in what he described as a "very difficult game" against a Scotland side known for their defensive intensity.
"It’s very important for us to win a very difficult game. To be 1-0 down against a Scotland side that has a very high defensive intensity... I’m very pleased that we managed to turn it around," the Portugal manager reflected.
Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates "perfect" UEFA Nations League start with Instagram message
Cristiano Ronaldo took to Instagram to celebrate Portugal’s flawless start in their Nations League campaign after scoring a dramatic late winner against Scotland. The 39-year-old forward, who was introduced at half-time with Portugal trailing 1-0, played a crucial role once again, sealing a 2-1 victory in the 88th minute at Estadio da Luz.
Ronaldo posted on social media after the game, expressing his satisfaction with the team’s perfect record so far:
“Two games, two wins. Thanks for all the support, Portugal!”
The legendary striker has been in fine form, having also found the net against Croatia, reaching the milestone of 900 career goals. His latest strike helped Portugal secure back-to-back victories, strengthening their position in the Nations League.
Despite starting on the bench for the first time since the 2022 World Cup quarter-final, Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact was undeniable. Bruno Fernandes had equalized for Portugal just nine minutes into the second half, but it was Ronaldo who provided the decisive moment, as he often has throughout his career.