Roberto Martinez Drops Ronaldo Bombshell, Hails Two Strikers in Portugal Win

• Roberto Martinez believes Portugal can still become victorious without Cristiano Ronaldo
• Portugal put nine past a hapless Luxembourg to maintain their 100% qualification record
• Cristiano Ronaldo was sidelined due to accumulated yellow cards

Roberto Martinez has heaped praises on Goncalo Ramos and Diogo Jota following Portugal's remarkable 9-0 victory over Luxembourg, a match in which Cristiano Ronaldo was absent.

Martinez's team delivered a sensational performance during their UEFA Euro 2024 Qualifiers clash against Luxembourg at the Estadio Algarve.

Goncalo Inacio started the scoring in the 12th minute, with Ramos extending their lead five minutes later. Ramos completed his brace in the 33rd minute, and Inacio added another goal for the hosts in first-half stoppage time, making it 4-0.

In the second half, Diogo Jota found the net in the 57th and 77th minutes, with Ricardo Horta adding a goal in the 67th minute, Sportskeeda reports.

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Bruno Fernandes, who contributed three assists during the match, scored in the 83rd minute, and Joao Felix wrapped up the scoring in the 88th minute.

Despite the absence of captain Ronaldo, who was suspended after receiving a yellow card against Slovakia, Portugal showcased their prowess.

After the match, Martinez praised both Ramos and Jota, emphasising that while Ronaldo is crucial to the team, a Selecao can achieve victory even in his absence.

The ex-Belgium gaffer said via PSG Talk:

“Gonçalo Ramos showed today what he can do, and Diogo Jota did the same. We need players who have the level to win games.The group is special. We don't need to compare them. Cristiano is important, but our team is ready to win without him.”

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo achieved a significant milestone following Portugal's historic victory over Luxembourg and their subsequent qualification for Euro 2024.

Most importantly, it secured their place in next year's competition in Germany. This achievement also makes Cristiano Ronaldo the first player in history to qualify for his sixth UEFA European Championship.

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Ronaldo's European Championship Journey

Ronaldo's journey began at the continental showpiece in 2004 when Portugal hosted the tournament. He continued his appearances in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 editions, captaining the team to their maiden title in the latter.

The Al-Nassr captain also participated in the last edition and has now played a crucial role in securing Portugal's sixth consecutive qualification.

Portugal seals Euro 2024 spot with heavy win

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Portugal secured their place as the first nation to qualify for the 2024 Euros after a convincing victory against underdogs Luxembourg on Monday, September 11.

With this triumph, the Iberian nation stands alone in the qualifiers with an impeccable record, having won all six of their matches and netted an impressive total of 24 goals.

Furthermore, this accomplishment solidifies Portugal's position as the inaugural team to guarantee their spot in next year's competition, set to be hosted by Germany during the summer.