Portugal manager, Roberto Martinez has insisted that his team is ready to win without captain Cristiano Ronaldo.
Martinez said this while hailing Goncalo Ramos and Diogo Jota after Portugal defeated Luxembourg 9-0 in Ronaldo’s absence in Monday’s UEFA Euro 2024 qualifier at the Estadio Algarve.
A brace each from Inacio, Ramos and Jota and a goal each from Ricardo Horta, Bruno Fernandes and Joao Felix ensured Portugal defeated Luxembourg.
Despite the absence of Ronaldo, who was suspended after picking up a yellow card against Slovakia, Portugal displayed their prowess against Luxembourg.
After the game, Martinez, who praised Ramos and Jota, also described Ronaldo as an important player to the team.
“Gonçalo Ramos showed today what he can do, and Diogo Jota did the same,” Martinez said (via PSG Talk).
“We need players who have the level to win games. The group is special. We don’t need to compare them. Cristiano is important, but our team is ready to win without him.”