PA Media/DPA
London
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez and midfielder Bernardo Silva both dismissed criticism levelled at their side ahead of Friday’s Euro 2024 quarter-final date with France.
Portugal were deemed underwhelming in their penalty shoot-out win over Slovenia in the last 16 in a match where captain Cristiano Ronaldo failed to convert an extra time penalty.
“Criticism is part of the job description. Eighteen months on (from his appointment) I think criticism shows how passionate people are about the national team and I accept that,” said Martinez.
“I think we run a lot of risks. There are a lot of stats which show our team is getting there - but it’s true we need to score the chances we get.”
Silva was more outspoken about claims Portugal are not adventurous enough, although he admitted the 0-0 draw after 120 minutes had not been a great experience for fans.
“When it comes to June for a World Cup or the Euros everyone thinks they are a manager,” he said.
“I don’t agree when you say we’ve not been playing at a good enough level.
“We are one of the best eight teams in Europe - in order to reach the quarter-finals it means we have worked properly.
“It may not be much of a display for the people at home but we have been doing an amazing job, otherwise we wouldn’t be here in the quarter-finals.”
The match is a rematch of the 2016 final where Portugal broke French hearts by lifting the trophy at the Stade de France. But France have beaten Portugal in the semi-finals of the 1984 and 2000 Euros and 2006 World Cup.
