Portugal coach Martinez to leave after World Cup elimination by Spain

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez said he was leaving his role after Spain beat his side 1-0 in the World Cup Round of 16 on Monday, calling the defeat the end of his spell with the team.

Martinez, who joined Portugal in 2023, said his contract expired on Monday and the Portuguese Football Federation now had the opportunity to appoint a new coach.

The Spaniard said he took charge as Portugal coach with an ambition to win the World Cup and felt there was no reason to continue after failing to achieve that target.

"I came to Portugal to win the World Cup and I think that, without winning it, there's no point in continuing," Martinez told a press conference after the match.

"The board and the president now have the opportunity to choose the new manager... my contract ends today. There isn't much more to say."

Martinez said no final decision had been made before the tournament but confirmed Spain's defeat was his last match in charge.

"Yes, it's my last game for the national team," he said. "I'm very proud... I've felt welcomed as just another Portuguese person, in a very warm way. It's been a pleasure, a source of pride and a responsibility."

Portugal's exit also means their talisman, Cristiano Ronaldo, is expected to bring down the curtain on his long international career.

Martinez lauded 41-year-old Ronaldo as an exemplary captain and thanked him for his services to Portugal, while avoiding further comment on the player's future.

"A word of thanks, because he was an exemplary captain," Martinez said. "Not just in terms of goals – the statistics speak for themselves – but also in terms of assists.

"It's his day-to-day commitment, the way he lives and breathes football. He's an example and something we must celebrate."

Martinez said Portugal had stood up to one of the tournament favourites but were undone by fine margins.

"We showed courage in defence, we were aggressive, and we defended very well," he said. "But in the World Cup round of 16, it's the small details that matter.

"The ball hitting the bar and going in or not, a chance in the 90th minute from a quick free kick. Details that make all the difference."