Roberto Martinez has confirmed his resignation as Portugal coach following their last-16 exit at the World Cup. Portugal produced an uninspiring performance as a 91st-minute Mikel Merino winner saw Spain beat their Iberian neighbours 1-0 and set up a quarter-final with the United States or Belgium.Defeat for Portugal ended the World Cup career of Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41-year-old having been a largely peripheral figure in his final game on the biggest stage. Ronaldo announced on Sunday that his sixth World Cup would be his last.And after failing to keep their hopes of a first world title alive, Portugal will now move forward without Martinez.It had been expected Martinez would step down following the tournament in North America and speaking in his post-match press conference, Martinez said: Its the end of the cycle. Its important to have a new voice, a new leader.I take with myself the memories, and hope that Portugal has good memories in the three and a half years I was head coach of the team. It was the experience of my life.It had not been decided previously [that I would leave after the tournament]. I came with the goal to win the World Cup, and because I did not win, it does not make sense to continue.Martinez took charge of Portugal in 2023 having failed to lead Belgiums Golden Generation to a major trophy in over six years with the Red Devils.He did win silverware with Portugal, guiding them to glory in the UEFA Nations League last year as they beat Spain in the final.Portugals defence of the Nations League starts in September, when they will begin a new era against Wales. Topics 2026 FIFA World Cup Portugal National Football Team Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Mbappe labels Paraguayan senator despicable over racist remarks about France star Nicholas McGee 6th July, 2026 Portugal 0-1 Spain: Merinos 91st-minute winner ends Ronaldos World Cup career Nicholas McGee 6th July, 2026 LIVE Portugal v Spain: Commentary, updates, goals and stats as Ronaldo looks to shoot down European champions Jon Fisher 6th July, 2026 Portugal vs Spain: Line-ups confirmed for blockbuster World Cup last-16 clash Mitch Fretton 6th July, 2026 World Cup 2026: Where to watch England games on TV, full BBC and ITV knockout stage listings, confirmed channels, schedule, live online streams, kick off times Ben Miller 6th July, 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026: Full England fixtures, results, schedule, confirmed squad, next match, kick off times Ben Miller 6th July, 2026
