Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez has lavished praise on goalkeeper Diogo Costa after his impressive display helped his side secure a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Colombia in their final FIFA World Cup group-stage match.
Despite progressing to the knockout rounds, neither side approached the contest with caution as both looked to finish the group stage on a high.
Colombia enjoyed the better chances throughout the match, registering 26 goal attempts and forcing Costa into six crucial saves to preserve Portugal’s clean sheet.
Speaking after the game, Martínez admitted it was one of the toughest tactical challenges his team has faced so far at the tournament and credited Colombia for making life difficult for his players.
“The match was fantastic, just as it was for Colombia. They are two teams that wanted to win and perhaps the third game might seem like a formality, and it was not,” Martínez said.
Portugal struggled to establish their usual possession-based rhythm and managed just two shots on target as Colombia’s aggressive pressing repeatedly disrupted their build-up play.
“Colombia is a team that likes to create duels. We need to control the game, control the ball, and we did not make the right decisions,” Martínez admitted.
He further acknowledged that the South Americans prevented Portugal from dictating the tempo of the game.
“We could not take the match where we wanted, and that is where Colombia is strongest,” he added.
With Portugal forced to defend for long spells, Costa produced a series of outstanding saves to deny Colombia a breakthrough. Martínez believes the FC Porto goalkeeper’s performance was instrumental in helping his side withstand the pressure.
“When Colombia got close to the goal a lot, that helped improve our tactical and defensive structure. In those moments Diogo Costa is essential. It’s important to see the level he showed,” Martínez said.
The Portuguese coach also believes the demanding encounter will benefit his team heading into the knockout rounds, describing it as an important tactical lesson against one of the tournament’s most intense pressing sides.
Portugal finished second in Group K with five points and will now face Croatia in the Round of 32 as they continue their quest for World Cup glory.
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