João Cancelo criticizes the draw and calls for more control in the game.

João Cancelo, the talented full-back for the national team, did not hide his frustration after the goalless draw against Mexico in a warm-up match for the 2026 World Cup. The Estadio Azteca, one of the sacred temples of world football, was the setting where the player highlighted the pressure he feels while representing Portugal, reflecting on the importance of controlling the game more effectively.

“In my opinion, playing for Portugal always comes with pressure. It’s where I love to play the most. As I’ve said, I’m representing my parents, my friends, my family, and I think all my teammates feel the same way. The Estadio Azteca impressed me a lot; they held a very beautiful ceremony before it started and welcomed us very well,” Cancelo stated, emphasizing the emotional connection he feels when wearing the national team jersey.

The analysis of the game was direct and incisive. “We need to control the game more. With the players we have, we need to control the game much better. We are a much better team than Mexico; we have better players than they do. I think that even though we are a bit superior, in my view, we could have done a little more. It’s always better to leave with a victory,” he asserted, underscoring the need for a stronger performance to meet expectations.

The full-back also spoke about the dynamics of the group, emphasizing the quality and competitiveness present in the National Team: “This working group is spectacular. We are all eager for the World Cup, to play it, to represent our families, to bring joy to the Portuguese, which is what we want, even if it doesn’t always go well. We always try to bring joy to the Portuguese, no matter how many times we are criticized, everyone wants to be here, everyone gives their all. If you saw our training sessions, the competitiveness is incredible. We have phenomenal players and the group is phenomenal as well.”

Regarding the performance of the opponent, Cancelo did not hesitate to acknowledge the difficulty that Mexico imposed: “It was a very physical team that made our game very difficult. They won many duels, a very aggressive team, but I think we could have done more.” This reflection shows the player’s self-criticism and ambition, as he is clearly focused on taking the National Team to new heights in the upcoming World Cup.

With expectations rising as the tournament approaches, the National Team, led by Cancelo and his teammates, will need to demonstrate more effective game control to achieve the long-awaited victory and bring joy to all Portuguese people. The pressure is on, but the determination is even greater.

This article first appeared on [Apito Final](https://apitofinal.pt/).