Portugal Armed and Ready With Their Best Cristiano

Portugal arrives at the UEFA Nations League semifinal as one of the most dangerous teams in the competition. Under head coach Roberto Martínez, the squad has found a new rhythm, with a resurgent Cristiano Ronaldo shining at the front. The Al Sadd striker has scored 17 goals in 21 matches since Martínez took over, averaging 0.81 goals per game—his best scoring rate ever with the national team.

Those numbers surpass the ones he posted under previous coaches like Fernando Santos (0.62 goals per match) and Paulo Bento (0.57). “Cristiano is going through a fantastic period as a No. 9. He’s at the level of the best strikers in Europe,” said Martínez ahead of their clash with Germany.

A Young Core Guided by a Living Legend

Beyond Ronaldo’s stellar form, this Portugal side is also about the future. With an average age of 26.1 years, Martínez has blended youth and experience seamlessly. Rising stars like Joao Neves, Rodrigo Mora, and António Silva are part of a team still led by the iconic CR7.

A potential showdown with Spain, led by the young phenom Lamine Yamal, could await in the final. But with 72 goals scored in 28 matches since Martínez took charge, this version of Portugal has the most prolific attack in recent history and the best win rate (71.04%) under any Portuguese manager.

Cristiano Aims to Cap His Legacy in Style

After going scoreless at Euro 2024, Cristiano Ronaldo has unfinished business with the national team. The Nations League may be the perfect platform for him to respond—by leading Portugal to yet another title. “We want to win it. In international football, you don’t get many chances to lift trophies,” said Martínez, who already reached a final four with Belgium in 2021.

With a rising generation, a sharp tactical identity, and a red-hot Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal has every reason to believe. And that makes them a serious threat to every contender—including Lamine Yamal and Spain—on the road to the Nations League title.