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Portugal midfielder Vitinha attended the pre-match press conference and shared his views on various topics.
Did you imagine as a child that you would become a two-time UEFA Champions League winner and take part in your second World Cup?
“I would say yes. Ever since I can remember, this is what I have wanted to do more than anything else. I never thought about pursuing any other career. Perhaps it is because my father was a footballer and I grew up surrounded by this environment. I have always wanted to play football. I did not foresee all these achievements coming my way. But as I always say, it is a journey. I have claimed those honours, yet I aim to win more, including the World Cup.”
Does Portugal regard itself as a title contender? Are you ranked among the top three favourites to lift the trophy?
“We always say the same thing. We are realistic. We truly have a high-quality national side filled with exceptionally talented players who feature for top clubs across the globe. I would even go so far as to say we have never had a stronger squad. But as always, strength on paper means nothing. I would call us genuine competitors. There is no doubt that we are a very powerful team, but I will not label us title favourites. We possess great strength and capability, and we have to translate that into solid performances and do our utmost for the national team.”
What is the key to winning the championship?
“If we all knew the answer, we would have already achieved it. One thing that always works is to stay humble, take every game as it comes and focus on the near future rather than looking too far ahead. We have abundant talent, and what we need to polish are our technical and tactical skills, especially tactics. We must show total dedication and commitment, just as we have always done. These are the perfect ingredients to deliver good results in the tournament. We appreciate the recognition and attention our national team has received, but all of this counts for nothing if we fail to perform well on the pitch. We are fully prepared and highly motivated, because we are eager to compete in this World Cup. It is every player’s dream, and we will do everything to make things go smoothly.”
Could winning the World Cup help you claim the Ballon d'Or?
“There are many trophies left to fight for, not just the World Cup. I hope to win numerous honours, including the World Cup. There is still a long way to go. We have not even played our first match yet, so it is far too early to talk about this. What I can promise is that we will show immense dedication and hard work. If we keep this up, we will move closer to our goals.”
You finished third in the Ballon d'Or rankings, yet you are not always mentioned among the biggest football stars. How do you feel about being an influential player on the pitch while keeping a low profile off it? Does this put you at a disadvantage?
“I feel completely comfortable with this role. It comes naturally and fits my style. I will never change who I am or act differently just to gain more fame and privileges. I prefer being this way, and I enjoy it. I do not believe it brings me any disadvantages at all.”
Many people rate Portugal’s midfield as the best in the world. Does this bring extra pressure?
“This is a top-tier national team and one of the best across the globe. Rather than talking about pressure, I would talk about responsibility. As a midfielder, I can only promise to keep working hard and staying dedicated, and we will give our all on the pitch. We do this not only because of what the World Cup stands for, but also for the whole nation — representing one’s country is always a special experience. Coaches usually draw on the momentum we build at club level, and it is up to them to decide how to make the best use of it. I will be happy to partner with any teammate in midfield; all I want is to step onto the pitch. Every single one of us will leave everything out there.”
You have played alongside both Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. What do they have in common? Would you like to see a final between Portugal and Argentina?
“I would love to play in the final, no matter who the opponent is. If it is Portugal versus Argentina, I would be ready to play that match right away. Still, the final is a long way off. Our immediate focus is the game against Congo, and we can discuss other things later. Playing alongside two of the greatest players in history has been an absolute joy. I have learned a great deal from both of them, and this experience will stay with me for the rest of my life. They are undeniably two of the best footballers of all time. I feel incredibly happy and proud to have shared the pitch with both legends.”
