Martinez: Portugal is growing, we are a team of both skill and noble character

Portugal head coach Martinez stated in an interview that as the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the Portuguese team is "getting into shape," and he expressed praise and pride for all the players.

Speaking to the media at the airport, Martinez said: "We will continue to prepare. The FIFA World Cup is one thing, but focusing on the game itself, on what we can control, is another. The entire team is growing, and I am very proud of the players. This is a team with excellent strength and great character."

Around 7 PM local time, after a warm send-off in Portugal, the team successfully landed at Palm Beach International Airport. Reflecting on the day's itinerary, Martinez stated: "Today was a very meaningful day. We completed training at the Football City, held an open training session for many children, and then we visited the Prime Minister, which was a very touching moment."

Cristiano Ronaldo and Bernardo Silva, who is rumored to be joining Real Madrid soon, were the first to disembark, and then they directly boarded the bus to transport the players to their hotel.

The Portuguese national team will use the luxurious Palm Beach as their base for the group stage of this FIFA World Cup. This area is one of the wealthiest regions in the world and also the residence of former US President Trump.

The team's hotel, the Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach, is less than 6 kilometers from Trump's residence. Martinez added: "The most important thing at this stage is to adapt to the time difference as quickly as possible, try not to sleep too long, and keep up with Miami's rhythm. I have reviewed the match against Nigeria and am ready for the days ahead."

In this FIFA World Cup, Portugal has been drawn into Group K. The team will play their first FIFA World Cup group stage match next week against the Democratic Republic of Congo, followed by matches against Uzbekistan and Colombia.