Martinez praises Ronaldo's preparation discipline ahead of Portugal World Cup match

Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez praised 41-year-old captain Cristiano Ronaldo for setting an example in training discipline ahead of the team's World Cup campaign in North America. Speaking at a press conference, Martinez declined to say whether Ronaldo would start the group-stage match against Uzbekistan in Houston, saying he had not yet passed the question on to the player. Ronaldo, who has played for clubs including Manchester United, Juventus and Real Madrid, is among Portugal's most experienced players at the tournament. Portugal opened its campaign with a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Houston match against Uzbekistan is part of the group stage. The World Cup marks Ronaldo's sixth appearance in the tournament with Portugal. Martinez said Ronaldo's attitude in training has been important for the squad, though he offered no further details on lineup plans for the upcoming fixture.