Martinez: Ireland s 11-man defense is difficult to play; the goal in the 21st minute proves that Jota is there

Hupu, October 12th: Portugal national team head coach Roberto Martinez was interviewed by Portugal’s state-owned TV station after the 1-0 victory over Ireland.

This match was as we expected. The Irish are playing better than what we saw in September. After the match against Armenia, where they were out of form, we expected them to respond and show aggression.

They played well. But the important thing for us is not to get anxious, not to lose focus, to launch counterattacks and create set pieces.

We had nine corners and Ireland had none. They didn't have a single shot on goal. Overall, a very good performance without the ball. We needed an early goal, but I really appreciate the team's resilience and values; we didn't lose control... It was a hard-won but well-deserved victory,

Why did it cost so much...?

I think the idea is to continue to utilize the resources available to us: the inside players, Bruno and Bernardo, who have the width, plus Nuno Mendes and Pedro Neto.

In the second half, Pedro Neto's play on the left came into play as Ireland's formation was asymmetrical. The result... it's not the cross tactic that's the fault; it's the avoidance of counter-attacks and maintaining a good defensive balance.

We did not control the ball quickly enough and did not use the width of the court to find space between the two lines. Ireland had 11 players in their penalty area and made a lot of stops.

We used to do better, but sometimes the game is won or lost in the last pass or at the critical moment; we failed to find the opportunity to score earlier. Overall, the team never lost control and they were high-spirited and motivated. The fans helped the team win three points.

The players on the bench were very helpful.

This is important. I think I mentioned this during the Euros. We didn't finish the game stronger and that changed during the Nations League. The semi-final against Germany was a moment of brilliant and intelligent finishing. The players came on the field with a clear mind, which kept the team stable.

Ruben Neves' goal in the 21st minute

Diogo's strength is with us. He always inspires us and gives us the opportunity to continue to pursue his dream, and his dream is also our dream.