The Portugal national team needs improvement after draw with Colombia. Vitinha assumes challenge and understands criticism.

What happened?

The 26-year-old player dismissed excessive heat and weather conditions felt in the World Cup as an "excuse" for the less successful performance against Colombia.

Why is it important for Portugal?

The margin of error is small or almost none. Portugal needs to improve to advance in the competition.

What's next?

The Portugal-Croatia match is scheduled for Thursday, at 19:00 local time.

DateOpponentLocation
June 22CroatiaBMO Field Stadium, Toronto, Canada

Vitinha confessed that he also needs to increase his level in this competition. "We are the first to be interested in playing well, in wanting to win", he said.

Who are the key players?

Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric, both already in their 40s, will experience their last presence in a World Cup.

The 2026 World Cup will run until July 19, in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.