Roberto Martinez, head coach of the Portugal national team, held a post-match press conference after losing to Georgia in the last round of the group stage at the EURO 2024.

“We started the game with a very low intensity. We conceded the goal quickly and this helped the opponent. We had moments but Mamardashvili played perfectly. We could not score the goal which gave Georgia more confidence and deservedly won.

There are several reasons for the loss. We have prepared for this match, worked on defense but the quick goal confused us. I changed 7-8 players because I wanted all players to be ready for the round of 16. I would say that sometimes we were not lucky. However, Georgia showed its strength and we lacked intensity. After the quick goal, Georgia focused on defense and achieved the result.

Slovenia in 1/8 final? They have written the history, like Georgia. We have played a friendly match against them but it is another level now. Today’s match proved that there is not an easy match at the tournament

Georgia played its historic match. They have high level players. The goalkeeper is playing at high level for 3 years. Kvaratskhelia is one of the best dribblers. It was no surprise that they played so well. The only surprise was the quick goal. Sagnol has done an incredible job and this team deserves appreciation”, - said Martinez.

WORLDSPORT.GE from Gelsenkirchen