Roberto Martínez Targets the Azteca as a Key Test for Portugal Ahead of the 2026 World Cup

The Portugal national team is already looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup and has circled a special date on its calendar. Led by head coach Roberto Martínez, Portugal will face Mexico on March 28 in a friendly match that will serve as the reopening of the iconic Estadio Azteca, now renamed Estadio Banorte.

The Spanish manager highlighted the magnitude of the challenge that comes with playing on Mexican soil. For Martínez, the environment, pressure, and intensity generated by the home crowd make this match an ideal rehearsal for the World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Martínez did not hide his admiration for the venue. In an interview with Marc Crosas on TUDN, he described the Azteca as a historic stadium that leaves a lasting impression on every national team that plays there.

The Portugal coach also recalled his experiences at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where he witnessed firsthand the impact of Mexican fan support—an element he believes is crucial in testing the character and personality of his squad.

Martínez spoke highly of Mexico’s current status, calling El Tri a major national team due to the constant level of expectation and pressure it faces. According to the coach, competing against a rival with such strong media attention and popular support helps prepare Portugal for high-stakes scenarios.

He made it clear that he does not see a clear favorite to win the 2026 World Cup. In his view, the title will depend more on a team’s form at the right moment, internal dynamics, and locker-room strength than on reputation alone.

For the March friendly, Portugal is expected to field a squad that blends youth and experience. Martínez emphasized the importance of young players sharing the locker room with established leaders such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Bernardo Silva, and Bruno Fernandes.

The coach also confirmed that he is closely monitoring Paulinho, the Toluca striker and standout performer in Liga MX, whose form has placed him on Portugal’s radar as a potential surprise inclusion in future call-ups.