The Portugal national football team recently secured a spot in the Final Four of the League of Nations, overcoming a first-leg defeat to Denmark with a resounding 5-2 victory after extra time on March 25, 2025. However, despite this triumph, head coach Roberto Martinez finds himself at the center of a storm of criticism from fans and pundits alike.
After losing 1-0 in the first leg of their quarter-final, Portugal rallied impressively at the José Alvalade Stadium in Lisbon. This victory not only advanced them to the next stage of the tournament but also reignited hopes of claiming the title for the second time, having previously won it in 2019. Yet, the joy of qualification has been overshadowed by ongoing discontent regarding Martinez's coaching methods.
Martinez, who took the helm in 2023 following the departure of the revered Fernando Santos, has faced significant scrutiny since his appointment. His tenure has been marred by Portugal's disappointing exit from Euro 2024, where they were eliminated by France in the quarter-finals. Many feel that the team, brimming with talent, has not been utilized effectively under his leadership.
Critics point to Martinez's reluctance to adapt his strategies and his frequent use of veteran players like Cristiano Ronaldo, who, at 40, is no longer the dynamic force he once was. This strategy has frustrated many, as they believe it stifles the potential of younger players. "The subject of the national team goes far beyond the mediocre performances imposed on a generation that was made for much more than a haphazardly won European Championship," lamented Sofia Oliveira, a journalist for CNN Portugal and DAZN. She emphasized the disconnect between the federation's decisions and the expectations of fans, stating, "No one can identify with a Federation that prioritizes cronyism over competence. The national team today is nothing more than the punching bag of the people."
Adding to the chorus of criticism, Luis Mateus of A Bola published a scathing editorial questioning Martinez's ability to lead Portugal to success. He suggested that Martinez's approach mirrors his time with Belgium, where he was known for trying to please everyone rather than making tough decisions. "Like the Belgian veterans, the coach has wanted to please everyone: this is evident in the blind retention of Ronaldo and resistance to players outside the core group," he wrote. Mateus criticized the static style of play and the lack of synergy among players, stating, "The positional play is static, lacking complementarity and off-the-ball movement. Hiding players like Diogo Jota or Gonçalo Ramos is another crime."
Despite the criticism, Martinez remains steadfast in his role. He has expressed confidence in his methods and the team's potential, stating, "I want the best for the players and for Portugal. The performance against Denmark was not up to par, and I put maximum pressure on myself. We are a very united team and we must use our supporters to beat Denmark. The opponent is Denmark, not external pressure." In response to the media scrutiny, he added, "I don’t read anything. My job is to prepare the players and evaluate the match within 72 hours. Criticism is part of the job."
As Portugal prepares to face Germany in the Final Four, the question remains: can Martinez turn the tide and silence his critics? The upcoming matches will be crucial not only for the team's ambitions but also for Martinez's future as head coach. The Portuguese public is eager for a return to glory, and the pressure is mounting for Martinez to deliver results that match the talent at his disposal.
With a talented roster that includes stars like Bernardo Silva and emerging players such as João Neves and Vitinha, the expectations are high. However, whether Martinez can effectively harness this talent and create a cohesive team remains to be seen. The road to the World Cup is long, and for now, the focus is on the League of Nations. The fans will be watching closely, hoping for not just victories, but a style of play that reflects the rich footballing heritage of Portugal.
As the Final Four approaches, the stakes are higher than ever for Roberto Martinez. Will he rise to the occasion and lead Portugal to success, or will the mounting criticism ultimately prove too great to overcome? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the pressure is on.
