MARTINEZ URGES PORTUGAL TO IMPROVE AFTER DR CONGO STALEMATE

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez admitted his side must improve after their disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their World Cup opener but insisted there was no reason for panic.

Portugal made the perfect start when Joao Neves headed them in front after just six minutes.

 However, despite dominating possession and boasting a star-studded lineup, they failed to build on that advantage and were punished when Yoane Wissa equalised before halftime.

Martinez felt the early goal disrupted his team’s rhythm rather than helping it.

“We do have to improve. We have to be very self-critical,” he said. “The World Cup is like that. We continue our work.”

The Portuguese coach praised his players’ commitment but admitted they became too cautious after taking the lead.

“We scored early, but instead of building momentum, we slowed down. We kept possession without creating enough danger and allowed Congo to reorganise.”

Despite dropping points, Martinez remained confident Portugal can bounce back, pointing to previous World Cup winners who stumbled in their opening matches before lifting the trophy.

He also reserved praise for DR Congo, who impressed in their first World Cup appearance since 1974.

“They were intense, confident and played like it was a final. That shows incredible personality,” Martinez said. “We knew Congo could do that. It wasn’t a surprise.”

Portugal will look to respond when they face Uzbekistan in their second Group K match.