Two draws left Portugal short of the fluency expected from a squad with serious tournament ambitions. The five-goal victory over Uzbekistan, however, offered evidence that the side can raise its level when the game opens up.
Felix reportedly believes confidence inside the camp has not changed. That conviction will be tested immediately against Croatia, where a slow start or another uneven spell could increase the pressure. The group-stage results have created questions, but they have not removed Portugal’s route to a deep run.
The report also says Felix defended Cristiano Ronaldo after questions about the veteran forward’s form. He reportedly rejected the idea that playing in Saudi Arabia diminishes the standard required of Portugal’s players, insisting the league remains competitive.
That support matters in a knockout setting. Ronaldo’s influence is judged not only through goals, but through how opponents react to his presence and how Portugal manage key moments around him. Felix also reaffirmed his willingness to take responsibility from the penalty spot, a useful mindset when a tight match may be decided by one kick.
Felix reportedly views Portugal’s familiarity with Croatia’s style as an advantage. That knowledge should help the team prepare for a match where patience may matter as much as possession.
Portugal now need to turn the call for calm into sharper execution. The next storyline is whether the side can produce the control and consistency missing from parts of the group stage when Croatia closes down the margin for error.