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Roberto Martinez has spoken about how the memory of the late Diogo Jota served as an emotional inspiration for Portugal during their dramatic World Cup knockout victory over Croatia. The national team coach highlighted several touching coincidences that appeared to link the narrow triumph directly to the former forward, who tragically lost his life along with his brother in a car accident last year.

Ramos secures victory with record-breaking goal

Portugal advanced to the last 16 after clinching a pulsating 2-1 comeback win against Croatia in a fiercely contested round-of-32 encounter. Cristiano Ronaldo converted a vital second-half penalty, and substitute Goncalo Ramos sealed the win with a dramatic header in the 93rd minute and 9 seconds — the latest match-winning goal in Portugal’s World Cup history. The Selecao endured a tense finish when Josko Gvardiol’s stoppage-time equaliser was disallowed for offside following a controversial VAR review.

Martinez reflects on emotional signs

In his post-match interview, Martinez praised the team’s tactical discipline and mental resilience after they fell behind early in the second half. The Spanish manager dedicated the victory to the memory of Jota, noting how the final 2-1 scoreline coincidentally reflected the late Liverpool forward’s international jersey number. The match also took place on the eve of the anniversary of Jota’s passing, and the Portugal squad gathered around a shirt bearing the number 21 to honour him after the final whistle.

Martinez said, “The World Cups are like that — they’re no longer just about the group stages. The first half was fantastic, full of intensity and attacking intent. Against a side like Croatia, who are so comfortable on the ball, it’s always dangerous. To concede and still keep believing, to make use of the substitutes — that’s the mentality that wins matches.”

He continued, “There are no perfect games in the World Cup anymore. Discipline, talent, and heart are all needed. The players played for Portugal, for Ricardo Carvalho’s father, and for our Diogo Jota and Andre.”

“It was a typical Diogo match — 2-1, which corresponds to number 21, against Croatia, the last team he scored against at Jamor. There were many signs. Diogo’s strength and energy were with us. I believe he’s very happy and proud.”

Squad depth gives Portugal an edge

Portugal’s strength in depth, particularly in attack, proved crucial in breaking down Croatia’s stubborn defence. Martinez emphasised the importance of his side’s tactical variety, praising the finishing quality of his key attackers while highlighting that internal competition for starting spots continues to strengthen their campaign.

The coach added, “We have many different player profiles. No one in the World Cup takes a penalty like Cristiano, and there’s no other striker with the same strength and penalty-box instincts as Goncalo Ramos. We also have other players who can make an impact.”

“Will Goncalo start the next game? That’s exactly the kind of competition we want. And Joao Felix is also having a very good World Cup.”

Portugal prepare for Iberian showdown

Portugal now face a formidable tactical challenge as they prepare to meet reigning European champions Spain in Texas on Monday. Martinez’s men will need to tighten their defensive transitions, having allowed Croatia several dangerous counter-attacks during the chaotic second half. Against a Spanish side renowned for their possession dominance, the Selecao will once again depend on their clinical attacking play to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.