Portugal's head coach Roberto Martinez affirmed on Friday that Cristiano Ronaldo's inclusion in the national team for Euro 2024 is well-deserved. The 39-year-old icon is set to feature in a potentially decisive Group F match against Turkey on Saturday.

Ronaldo, Portugal's all-time leading scorer with 130 goals in a record 208 international appearances, continues to play a crucial role for his country. Despite his move to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia last year, Ronaldo remains a significant presence in the national squad.

Martinez emphasized Ronaldo's continued value to the team, highlighting his experience, goal-scoring prowess, and strategic movement. "For us, Cristiano brings the experience, brings the know-how, brings the goal-scoring opportunities, the movement in the box, the opportunity to open up space," Martinez said during a press conference.

Ronaldo played the full match in Portugal's opening 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic, though he did not score. Francisco Conceicao netted the decisive goal in that match. Martinez pointed to Ronaldo's impressive recent form, with 44 goals in 45 club games over the past season and seven goals in seven international appearances leading up to the Euros.

Martinez dismissed any doubts about Ronaldo's physical capabilities, stating, "Cristiano is in the national team of Portugal because he deserves to be, and all the physical stats just back that he can play every four days."

Portugal is currently second in Group F, trailing Turkey on goal difference. A win against Turkey at the Westfalenstadion, coupled with a non-victory for Georgia against the Czech Republic in Hamburg, would secure Portugal's qualification for the last 16 in first place.

Turkey, buoyed by their 3-1 win over Georgia, will likely enjoy strong support in Dortmund, adding to the match's significance.