Portugal coach Roberto Martinez says Diogo Jota’s memory will motivate his players as they prepare to face Croatia in the World Cup Round of 32.

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez says his side will draw inspiration from the memory of Diogo Jota as they prepare for a crucial FIFA World Cup Round of 32 showdown against Croatia in Toronto on Thursday.

Martinez described the knockout stages as the beginning of a “second World Cup” after Portugal successfully navigated a challenging Group K campaign. The Seleção finished second behind Colombia after drawing with DR Congo and Colombia while recording an emphatic 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan.

“Tomorrow we begin the second World Cup,” Martinez told reporters. “The preparation was very important because the three group matches were difficult. Now every game is different, and we have to be ready.”

The Portugal coach acknowledged the quality of their next opponents, highlighting Croatia’s recent World Cup pedigree after finishing runners-up in 2018 and third in 2022. Martinez expects a tightly contested encounter between two experienced international sides that know each other well.

“We know Croatia very well, and they know our strengths and our talent,” he said. “It will be a very competitive match.” The Spaniard also dismissed criticism surrounding his decision to play Cristiano Ronaldo for the full 90 minutes in the final group-stage draw against Colombia despite calls for Gonçalo Ramos to receive more playing time.

Martinez insisted every member of his squad understands their role and remains prepared to contribute whenever called upon. “What’s important is that all the players are ready to play for the team, whether they start or come off the bench,” he explained.

🚨🎙️ Vitinha:

“We want to win World Cup for Portugal, for Diogo Jota, and also, obviously, for CRISTIANO RONALDO.” pic.twitter.com/N0jNCRAOFW

— TCR. (@TeamCRonaldo) July 2, 2026

Much of the spotlight will fall on veteran captains Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić, who could be facing each other for the final time at a World Cup. Martinez praised both football legends, saying their influence extends far beyond their age and that they continue to set the standard inside the dressing room.

The occasion will also carry deep emotional significance for Portugal as the match comes a day before the anniversary of Diogo Jota’s tragic death in a car accident. Midfielder Vitinha admitted the squad will use the late forward’s memory as extra motivation, saying the team wants to win for their families, for Jota, for the entire nation, and for everyone in Portugal as they chase a place in the last 16.

Portugal face Croatia at midnight Portuguese time, exactly one year after the passing of Diogo Jota.

The Portuguese players have been wearing a special bracelet throughout this World Cup, with their own name and Diogo Jota’s name on it.

He is always with them, and he will be… pic.twitter.com/XBSJJQ8IFD

— 433 (@433) July 2, 2026