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Martinez Announces 2026 World Cup Farewell, Dias Out

6/17/2026

43 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Martinez World Cup

Martinez said the 2026 World Cup in United States will likely be his last and that his contract ends after the tournament.
Martinez confirmed Rúben Dias will miss the opening match on June 17 because he is not 100 % fit after a knock in the friendly versus Nigeria.
Martinez highlighted Portugal’s 2024-25 UEFA Nations League title and praised DR Congo as a flexible, well-defending side with many players in European leagues.

Summary

Amorim Signs

Ruben Amorim signed with AC Milan on Tuesday, ending his candidacy for Portugal’s head-coach job.
Fernando Martínez is weighing a return to club management, a move that forces the Portuguese Football Federation to decide whether to appoint a coach now or wait for the World Cup.
Portugal qualified for the World Cup with a 9-1 win over Armenia in November 2025, while Bruno Fernandes and João Neves starred despite Ronaldo’s suspension.

History

Historical Context

On 10 July 2016, Portugal defeated host France 1-0 in the Euro 2016 final at the Stade de France, in front of 75,868 spectators, earning their first major international trophy. Coach Fernando Santos, appointed in 2014, guided the side, with substitute Eder scoring in the 108th minute, making Portugal the tenth nation to win the tournament and qualifying them for the 2017 Confederations Cup.

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Martinez World Cup

Martinez said the 2026 World Cup in United States will likely be his last and that his contract ends after the tournament.
Martinez confirmed Rúben Dias will miss the opening match on June 17 because he is not 100 % fit after a knock in the friendly versus Nigeria.
Martinez highlighted Portugal’s 2024-25 UEFA Nations League title and praised DR Congo as a flexible, well-defending side with many players in European leagues.

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