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Martinez Defends Ronaldo as Portugal Needs Win vs Uzbekistan

6/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Coach Roberto Martinez defended captain Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Portugal’s Group K match against Uzbekistan on June 23, 2026, at Stadium in Houston.
Ruben Dias is expected to be fit, though Martinez may hold him back.
Uzbekistan’s projected eleven features former Roma striker Eldor Shomurodov and defender Abdukodir Khusanov.
Both sides entered the match needing points after Portugal’s 1-1 draw with DR Congo and Uzbekistan’s 3-1 loss to Colombia.

History

Historical Context

In 2002 Brazil won its fifth World Cup in Yokohama, with Ronaldo scoring two goals in the final and eight overall—about 30% of Brazil’s 27 tournament goals. The event was the first co-hosted tournament in Asia by Japan and South Korea, a precedent that resurfaces in 2026 as Portugal’s Roberto Martínez backs Cristiano Ronaldo, highlighting the tactical gamble on a star striker.

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Story summary

Coach Roberto Martinez defended captain Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Portugal’s Group K match against Uzbekistan on June 23, 2026, at Stadium in Houston.
Ruben Dias is expected to be fit, though Martinez may hold him back.
Uzbekistan’s projected eleven features former Roma striker Eldor Shomurodov and defender Abdukodir Khusanov.
Both sides entered the match needing points after Portugal’s 1-1 draw with DR Congo and Uzbekistan’s 3-1 loss to Colombia.

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