Roberto Martinez: New Portugal Boss Heaps Praise on Ronaldo After Managing First Game

• Roberto Martinez took to the dugout for the first time as Portugal boss against Liechtenstein
• He guided his new team to a convincing 4-0 victory with star Cristiano Ronaldo scoring twice
• The Spaniard had made huge demands of the 38-year-old ahead of the European Championship

It was the beginning of a new era for Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo yesterday as new boss, Roberto Martinez managed his first game.

The former Belgium coach took over the reins of the one-time European champion after former boss, Fernando Santos, who led the team to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, was relieved of his duties.

Ronaldo inspired his team to a 4-0 win over Liechtenstein, scoring twice, including a delightful free kick to wrap up things before making way in the 78th minute for young Goncalo Ramos, who shone at the World Cup.

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It has not taken long for Martinez to 'fall in love' with Ronaldo and identify a trait that has made the veteran stand out among the best during his illustrious career.

Martinez praises Ronaldo's commitment

As reported by Sky Sports, Ronaldo set a new world record as the most capped international with his 197th cap for Portugal, surpassing Kuwait's Bader Al-Mutawa.

Speaking to reporters after the game, a delighted Martinez praised the superstar and stated the team would need his veterancy going forward, as reported by Sportskeeda.

"To be in the national team, you have to be committed. It's a new cycle. It's very important that he shows commitment so that we can use his experience, and he shows that commitment," he said.

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Ronaldo increased his world record for most international goals to 120 with the goals and has now scored every year for Portugal since 2004.

The Selecao face Luxembourg next on Sunday as the Euro 2024 qualifying series continues.

Martinez makes demands from Ronaldo

Sports Brief previously reported on Portugal's new coach making his first assignment to meet with the Al-Nassr captain in Saudi Arabia.

The 49-year-old reported shared his plans with Ronaldo and urged him to help Portugal win Euro 2024 in Germany next year.

The 38-year-old led his country to their first major victory in 2016 when they defeated France 1-0 in the final to win the title in Paris.