'Cristiano was exemplary' - Martinez explains super sub Ronaldo decision - video Dailymotion

Ronaldo found the back of the net in the 88th minute in Sunday's win over Scotland

Transcript

00:00Cristiano did 17 sprints against Croatia, the player with the most number of sprints.

00:06So we need to protect the players.

00:09But a game in 72 hours is impossible to have a physical performance.

00:16So Cristiano's task is to play the first half and leave, or enter and finish the game.

00:25And I think that's the decision.

00:28It's an important advantage for the national team.

00:31When he enters, if the scorer needs strength and goals,

00:36Cristiano gives energy, gives a feeling to the fans.

00:40The stadium is different.

00:41If Cristiano leaves, I think it's the opposite.

00:44And it makes it easier for the opponent to do what they want to do when they play away from home in Portugal.

00:51But the important thing is the commitment of all the players.

00:54All the players believe in what they can do for the national team and are prepared for that.

01:04And Cristiano, as captain, was exemplary.