Palm Beach Gardens (USA) (AFP) – Bernardo Silva said it was not his job to question the manager’s decisions after spending the last two games on the bench as Portugal prepare for Thursday’s World Cup clash against Croatia.
Released: 06/30/2026 – 20:46
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The midfielder, who recently joined Real Madrid from Manchester City, was left out of the starting line-up after a disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo in Portugal’s first match.
He came on as a substitute in the 5-0 thrashing of Uzbekistan but remained on the bench for the 0-0 draw with Colombia.
Silva, 31, told reporters on Tuesday that he was eager to take part in the round of 16 match in Toronto.
“Of course I want to be a part of it, of course I want to contribute, of course I think I can help,” he said.
“But I’m ready, I’m ready to help the team in any way I can, whether it’s in the starting lineup, in a five-minute game or in the locker room.”
Silva, one of a group of high-quality Portugal midfielders that includes Bruno Fernandes, Ruben Neves and Vitinha, said head coach Roberto Martinez has difficult decisions to make.
“We have to do our best, support the players on the field, train well, create a good atmosphere and, above all, be ready for when this opportunity comes again,” he said.
Silva revealed what he believes Portugal need to do against Croatia to reach the round of 16.
“Try to be a team that creates danger, is aggressive and direct, but at the same time does not lose control of the game, which we lost a little against Colombia,” he said.
Silva added that no team can play “eight perfect games” but said Portugal have the tools to win matches even if they are below par.
Martinez’s team will face a Croatian team still led by Luka Modric, who remains the team’s creative force at the age of 40.
“Luca is truly an idol for me. The way he not only played and remained at the highest level, but also the way he carried himself throughout his career is a great source of inspiration for me,” Silva said.
“I wish him the best, but not in two days because I want to beat him.”
© 2026 AFP