Portugal defender Diogo Dalot has said that many people do not want Portugal to achieve success at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Portugal’s players continued to deny rumors of dressing room unrest and responded to criticism after their disappointing draw against DR Congo. Dalot became the latest team member to publicly address the situation ahead of the team’s next game.
“I won’t name names, but there are people who don’t want Portugal to win” Dalot said this during a press conference before the upcoming clash between Portugal and Uzbekistan. “I am here to send a clear message: the team is united and Portugal is working hard to find solutions and make improvements.”
Portugal started the opening match positively when João Neves scored the first goal, but Yoane Wissa equalized for the Democratic Republic of Congo. The African team arguably looked more dangerous during the second half, creating several scoring chances while Portugal failed to register a shot on target.
“I’m not here as a commentator” Dalot continued. “Yesterday we came together as a team and understood that this group is protected. Of course, millions of people want Portugal to succeed, but there are also many who do not. Those who want to join us on this journey are welcome and our ship will continue to move forward despite everything.
Criticism is always part of the process. We are the first people who want to make a difference. Portugal is strong, united and knows what it takes to win. But I also understand that not everyone wants this to happen.”
In fact, Portugal was also blamed for their disappointing result and the wave of controversy that followed. Much of the discussion centered on captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who entered the tournament with huge expectations but struggled to make an impact in the opening match. The veteran striker continues to face intense pressure from both the media and his own team.
Dalot also spoke about the weight of expectations surrounding the national team.
“There are high expectations on every player. I have never tried to shirk that responsibility. But expectations are one thing, what happens on the pitch is another. Do we have the ability? Absolutely. Are we doing everything necessary to succeed? Without a doubt.
We weren’t good enough in the previous match, but now we have another chance to put things right. The pressure to win and control the match ended up working against us. Portugal must concentrate on the 90 minutes on the pitch and enjoy the match instead of worrying too much.”
According to the World Cup schedule, Portugal will face Uzbekistan in their second group stage match on June 24, a match that could prove crucial to their hopes of advancing in the tournament.
Sources: BM
