Bruno Fernandes has identified Portugal’s negative second-half approach during its 1–0 defeat to Spain as the reason for its World Cup exit on Monday.
Portugal was sent packing after losing to its Iberian neighbors in the round of 16, Mikel Merino scoring the game’s sole goal in the 91st minute. The result means Portugal has failed to go beyond the round of 16 in four of the last five World Cups.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who was appearing in what is widely expected to be his final-ever match at the tournament, has come under significant scrutiny for disappointing performances amid Portugal’s elimination. But Fernandes believes it was a tactical shift that proved costly in Texas.
“It’s a sad moment. We had the clear objective of winning the World Cup, but we weren’t at our best,” said the Manchester United captain.
“In the first half, we were superior, but in the second half we made the mistake again of dropping too deep and giving the ball to the opponent. When that happens, we end up suffering.
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