Portugal boss Roberto Martinez slammed Hampden’s security breach which saw Cristiano Ronaldo confronted by an idiot pitch intruder during Tuesday night’s Nations League match.
The supporter climbed over the billboards and ran across the entire pitch towards Ronaldo, with the Portugal captain clearly alarmed.
The person was seen carrying a smartphone and intended to take a selfie with the iconic striker, but was belatedly escorted away by stewards.
Martinez insists it was unacceptable and dangerous, pointing out that Ronaldo’s targeting is now becoming a recurring theme.
Fearing for his player’s safety, Martinez said: ‘Unfortunately this has happened too many times. It’s not the first time.
A pitch intruder is being tackled after breaching Hampden security in an attempt to reach Ronaldo
‘During the European Championships in the summer we had many opportunities. Of course we know what Cristiano brings to the game. We understand that.
‘But if someone jumps onto the field with the wrong intentions, it is very dangerous. I was worried.’
Martinez was ultimately left frustrated as his team could not find a way to break through the Scottish defence. He admitted Portugal were wasteful with their final passes in the attacking third of the pitch, but paid tribute to the work of colleague Steve Clarke in the way he organized his team.
“We played well and controlled the game,” said the Spaniard. ‘We often got into the final third but then maybe didn’t make the right pass. We lacked any precision.
Ronaldo shows his frustration with a disappointing evening for the Portuguese
The Portuguese captain was clearly dissatisfied at the end of the goalless draw with the Scots
Ronaldo and his teammates were continually thwarted by resilient Scots
Managers Martinez and Clarke embrace at the end of the match
‘But I would also like to give credit to Scotland. They played well and their goalkeeper also performed well.
‘I think Steve Clarke is building a national team that looks like a club. That’s a big compliment. Everyone works for each other. They know the structure. They are brave when they have to be. They have fast attacks and some fast players.
‘They beat the European champions [Spain] last year, not by chance or accident. All credit to Steve Clarke and the coaching staff. They’re doing a great job.’