rewrite this title Martinez hopeful Ronaldo is not set for ‘last dance’ against Croatia

Roberto Martinez is determined to make sure Portugal’s round-of-32 clash with Croatia is not Cristiano Ronaldo’s “last dance” at the World Cup.

Portugal finished second in Group K, sandwiching a 5-0 thrashing of Uzbekistan between draws with DR Congo and Colombia.

Ronaldo is now set to play his ninth World Cup knockout match, though he has failed to score in any of his previous eight. Overall, this would be his 25th appearance at the tournament.

But he is not the only player who could be appearing in their final World Cup match, with Luka Modric also potentially set to bow out depending on the result.

Both players, who played alongside each other at Real Madrid between 2012 and 2018, have started all three matches at the World Cup so far, but Martinez is keen to make sure it is Ronaldo’s journey that continues.

“We are talking about players who are beyond public opinion,” Martinez said.

“Their longevity in football makes them special. You’re talking about Luka Modric, now over 40 years old, who continues to play an enormous number of matches and remains extremely important.

“The same is true of our captain. Anyone who talks about age – age is just a number. What matters is what they do and the example they set in the dressing room.

“They are icons; it’s important to have these examples. Let’s hope this isn’t Ronaldo’s last dance.”

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— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) July 1, 2026

Portugal have progressed past the first knockout round in each of their last two major tournaments and are unbeaten in three matches coming into this game (W1 D2).

They have only gone four or more games without defeat across a single campaign twice before, doing so in 1966 (four) and 2006 (five).

Portugal have struggled to fully hit their stride so far, but Martinez remains confident that his side will be at their best for the start of the knockouts.

“The team is very strong, thanks to the unity, talent, and commitment we have,” he added. “I’m confident.

“The preparation consisted of the three games we played, with difficult moments where we showed resilience and intensity.

“When you’re at a good level, winning is important, but losing is also important. Not losing against Colombia was very important. The World Cup starts [on Thursday].”