Portugal on the beach after the draw against Congo, the controversy swells. Ruben Dias: “It did us good”
By OnzeActu · · 2 min read
After the disappointing draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo, Portuguese players were photographed at the beach during a free morning sanctioned by Roberto Martinez. Ruben Dias rejected the criticism at the conference: according to him, this moment of relaxation benefited the collective. Portugal must now respond on the pitch against Uzbekistan.
The controversy continues to follow the Portuguese camp installed in California for the 2026 World Cup. A few days after the arrival of the selection, a short break of relaxation granted to the players - a morning at the beach authorized by the coach Roberto Martinez - rose to the surface, the day after the draw considered disappointing against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In the photos and videos shared, we recognize several Seleção executives: Cristiano Ronaldo, Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias, João Félix, Gonçalo Guedes, José Sá, Diogo Dalot and Samu Costa. These images have relaunched discussions internally and in Portugal on the professional posture expected of a national team in preparation for a major tournament.
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Faced with criticism, Ruben Dias broke his silence at a press conference. The Manchester City defender firmly rejected the attacks: “I don’t think it should have been a problem. You have a great responsibility and it is your duty to inform people correctly. » He added that this moment of relaxation had been beneficial to the group: “It’s a positive thing for us. If done the right way, it only brings benefits. »
Bruno Fernandes had already expressed himself in the same direction, defending the decision and recalling that, without this break, the players would have remained cloistered in the hotel: “We are doing everything to present ourselves in the best conditions and represent our country as best as possible. »
The fact remains that the debates off the field will have little weight if the Seleção does not transform the test sportingly: Portugal is now expected to take part in the next match, against Uzbekistan.