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Portugal at Germany World Cup

Relive the excitement of Portugal's thrilling run to the semi-finals of the World Cup through the fan's thoughts on the tournament.

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thoughts on Quintanova’s idea

it’s dumb, this is football and not hockey, also in hockey players get sent off for like 2 to 5 mins because they commit a foul. Just because someone dives or is actually fouled, they shouldn’t be sent off, that would make teams become even more fatigued at the end of the game resulting in a sloppy performance.
      Zeca

Diving

OK, can we change the subject. Yeah, Portugal did great. Point is, they still haven’t won anything. To echo someones comments, they do lack the cutting-edge, or the killer-instinct. The finishing-touch...

But what about this diving business. Yeah, Portugal was somewhat guilty of it. But so are a lot of other teams. It would certainly be nice to see great and obvious talents such as C. Ronaldo not have to resort to that type of nonsense. But the truth is that as long as FIFA puts up with it, it will continue. Its like fighting in the NHL. Its outrageous and there should be no place for it, but the league executives condone it. Its up to FIFA to change the rules. What would fellow readers suggest?

Let me start the debate by suggesting that every time someone goes down where the play has to stop, that regardless if it is intentional or not, the player must go off for 5 minutes. This I am sure would cut down on all the nonsense that makes the beautiful game kind of ugly. What think you?
      Quintanova

Pride & Prejudice (reply to Sam)

Sam - What Institute did you Escape from? Sam your last post made me chuckle and scratch my head in disbelief. It is clear you do not fully understand the game of football, the role football plays in the Portuguese community and the general mentality of the Portuguese fans. You can ask 100 Portuguese fans and I guarantee you that 99% will back Scolari and are proud of the national teams showing at the World Cup. We would all like Mourinho to become the National manager one day but to think this will happen in the next 2 years is pure fantasy and unrealistic and so we support the current manager Scolari whole heartily.

As for your comments regards the ‘negative diving tactics’ and ‘cheating tactics’ AGAIN I stress that these tactics were used by the majority of the teams that made it into the last 16. The French, Italians, Germans, Argentines, Dutch and the Spanish dived and feigned injury as much as Portugal did. World class players the like of Henry, Robben, Ballack, Totti, Messi, Torres EVEN Gerrard & J. Cole all feigned injury and were guilty of simulation the difference being the English press in particular did not focus as heavily on any of these other teams. Sam to draw a line under this subject if FIFA had felt that Portugal were employing negative tactics why did they award them with the Most Exciting Team of tournament accolade?

As for your comments regards ‘waiting another 40 years’, this proves without a doubt how short sighted you really are. Portugal’s current pool of talent in all areas of the field is unrivalled in Europe and is probably equal with that of Argentina. I do not wish to revisit this debate with you again as I feel I’m banging my head against a brick wall. We should all be proud for what Portugal have achieved not only in this World Cup but particularly over the last 2 years, and realise that this team will evolve into major force in world football and be respected for our achievements and style of play (as recognised by FIFA). Case closed.
      Semiao

No Respect

It’s sad to see that a lot of the world gives no respect to Portugal and what they have done these recent years. You hear announcers always try and justify why the other team lost and not how Portugal won. They continue to say we are underachievers yet we made it to the semi 3 out of the 4 major tournaments.

France talks about how Portugal dives when in fact not one of these ‘dives’ have produced a change in the game where as France had 3 big dives which they scored off (Spain, Portugal, Italy). Also Domenech kicks a waterbottle onto the field but every one seems to turn the other way.

When will they start giving Portugal the respect they deserve? Also I love how FIFA comes out and says why a certain player did not win the youth award because of fair play but the president of FIFA (French) has no statement about giving the golden ball to Zidane although his small little head butt
      Daniel

The Dream of A Nation

It upsets me that some English fans have the nerve to come on a site like this and leave bitter comments. When Portugal loses we accept a defeat even though we might question a call made by a ref. (like the penalty in France v. Portugal). But the English they never let things go! Their trashy tabloids and newspapers who seem to know nothing about professional journalism insult our nation, best players, and people all at once.

Accept the defeat. You were clearly not cheated and Ronaldo is no more of a diver than any other star player trying to get the best for our team. His only mistake was not throwing himself hard enough like the one French player did! Than maybe we would be in the finals!

As to our team playing dirty, that is complete nonsense. We are aggressive true, but we fight so hard because we want victory more than any other team I’ve ever seen. In the end, I’m not sad or upset about our fourth place finish. We gave our all and with Scolari and the promise of players like Ronaldo and others (although I will miss Figo and Pauleta) we will go far. The long Portuguese wait will only make us the victory sweeter when we accomplish all we are capable of!
      Tracy

So close

The loss to Germany was predictable and not heart-breaking. The Germans, playing at home, had much more to play for. However, after seeing the final, I can say with confidence that I believe Portugal would have beaten Italy for the Cup. Still I make no excuses and give France credit for doing just enough to win against Portugal. Portugal did a wonderful job of moving the ball up the pitch, but ultimately it only matters if that ball reaches the back of the net.

After reading other comments I see that I’m not alone in wondering why Nuno Gomes was not given a chance. I like Pauleta a lot but he wasn’t effective for whatever reason during the tournament. Seeing Nuno score on a beautiful header against Germany was bittersweet. Afterall it was a meaningless goal. A shame that his finishing ability, the thing that Portugal lacked the most, wasted away on the bench.
      Michael

Portugal On The Rise

In the midst of doubts, obstacles, and thrills and not so good a reputation, Selecção Nacional-Clube Portugal arrived in Germany on a spring day in June, ready to honor its tiny Atlantic country. Packed with high spirits, hunger and soaring confidence, the team ignited the fire that would spark far beyond expectations.

When the first round began and ended in high note the team silenced many ill mouths and began its journey that would put many already tachycardic hearts in a roller coaster of emotions and the world for the first time realized the power at Portugal’s once invisible feet. The feet of Figo, Cristiano Ronaldo, Miguel, Maniche, Pauleta, Deco and the rest of Luso sensation danced right into our hearts and we were mesmerized.

Overcoming controversies and the world itself, Portugal made it all the way to the semi-finals. Despite not having reached the finals, Portugal is all the same victorious, with the 4th best in the world title and a World Cup performance worthy of a “Salva de Palmas.”
      Raul Rosa - Visit www.raulrosa.com

Very proud of Portugal!!!

I am very proud of Portugal!! I think they tried very hard and played amazing! I think Scolari is a great coach and guided the team well. Looking forward for Euro 2008...Everyone knows Portugal should of been in that final match!...VivA Portugal!!
      Natalia

Nuno Gomes-the best striker

Nuno Gomes needs to be played more. In Euro 2000, he was our top scorer. In 2002, he didn’t play until the final match, so we lost. In Euro 2004, in the Spain match when we needed a result, he got a chance because thankfully Pauleta was out with two yellows. He scored a wonderful goal to get us through. And finally, in the 15 minutes he plays in 2006, he scores. He is better than Pauleta and Postiga, although I love them both. Why don’t coaches play him more? If Portugal want to win, they need NUNO GOMES!
      Armanfigo

Exciting team - Thank you

I am a neutral but was rooting for Portugal since the start of the WC. I thought they might make it to the final.. but anyways.. it was a joy to watch some exciting players like Deco, Figo, Ronaldo.. all the matches involving Portugal were exciting and fun to watch.. thank you.. I have been a fan of Figo and now that he is retired, would have liked him to go out in style in the WC final.
      S Rao

Portuguese Football On The Rise

Before World Cup 2006, I did not have any impression of Portuguese football at all, having failed to take notice of this national team. However, I have discovered that the Portugal team play extremely entertaining football. Their style of passing play is definitely a cut above several other teams.

Cristiano Ronaldo, in particular, impressed me with his speed and dribbling skills. With more experience and maturity, he will undoubtedly rise to greater heights. Hopefully, he will discard his ‘diving’ nature as well. It was a pity Portugal only came in fourth for World Cup 2006. However, I believe that as they scout for potential strikers & goal-scorers, they are potential winners of a major tournament in the decade ahead.
      Laura

Gomes should have played

Nuno Gomes should have been given more of a chance. He scored with his head, something no one else on the team could do. They needed a target man for crosses and someone who could hold up the ball then flick it on to the running wingers instead of having to rely on the wingers to carry the ball into the attacking third, then either take a shot themselves or lay it off for a long shot to a midfielder. Hardly the most efficient way of scoring.

People were taking to many dives too. It’s frustrating because players were throwing away opportunities at scoring for the chance to throw themselves on the ground. I don’t know if it’s a collective lack of confidence in their skills or what, but they can do better than that. Players with that level of talent should always fight through anything because they have the belief that they are about to score.
      Brodie

Flawless’s ‘poor choices’

Flawless quote: “Scolari is great, but made poor choices as per the below”. That sums it up so why the hell’s he still head coach? He said yesterday “Money’s not everything” and that he loves “sand, surf and beach” so time to pack him off to the seashore and recruit another coach - someone capable. Agreed about Nuno Gomes, and yet he didn’t feature in the France game where he may well have made a difference but is now called upon for the 3rd-place decider. Scolari’s truly past it. Put him out to pasture and recruit Mourinho for the job. The sooner the better!
      Sam

Lacking Cutting Edge

Portugal lacked a cutting edge. I am a great supportor of Portugal since year 1989-1991 - The golden age youth team. Scolari is great, but made poor choices as per the below: 1-Insisted on playing Pauleta though he did not do anything in the world cup and lacked creativity - no wonder C-Ronalado was not passing him balls. 2- Did not give Nuno Gomes a chance to play though he always saves Portugal from losing. 3- Why not give a chance of Boa Morte and make use of his speed to counter attack ? 4-Rui Costa and Sergio Conceicao could have been greate alternatives/tools when playing against a team that plays defensivly i.e France blocking the way in the match
      Flawless

Semiao, “My foot!” says Sam

Semiao, re: “Thank you Portugal”, “My foot! It was a game of “two contrasting halves”. Have another look at it. In the first period Portugal played “positive” attacking to win football and kept the Frenchmen honest to a man. (Consider also another look at the France/Brazil game and see where the “Jogo Bonito” team went seriously wrong giving the Frenchmen ample room to manoeuvre which obviously became their undoing.) In the second period at no doubt Scolari’s insistence Portugal employed “negative diving tactics” - to call a spade a spade, blatant “cheating tactics” - which understandably the experienced Uruguayan ref was having none of and so it’s history now how Big Phil Scolari cost Portugal any chance of rewriting the World Cup record books!

Forget all this superfluous nonsense as to what Mourinho “first has to achieve” before being eligible to apply or being requested on bended knee by the national team selectors to coach the national squad. Mourinho is now 43-years of age according to Wikipedia. When should he make the transition? When the guy’s 60+ and past it?!?! The man has obvious talent and I doubt very much if he’d been in charge of Portugal during their most recent semi-final appearance that he’d request at halftime his side “cheat” in the second period as Scolari outrageously encouraged in an effort to even the ledger.

Scolari showed his hand in this only Portugal’s second semi-final appearance in World Cup tournament history. The fact is the team had the ability and talent to “go all the way!” If changes aren’t immediately instigated and implemented you can bet on sitting on your backside another gut-wrenching mind-numbing 40 years-plus for Portugal to feature in another World Cup semi-final.

I repeat sack Scolari now at this tournament’s conclusion and recruit Mourinho to mould and rebuild the team for Euro 2008 and WC 2010. It’s Portugal’s only hope of “true success” in the foreseeable future.
      Sam

Maniche Golden Ball Nomination

With regard to your homepage headline - about time the fella got some credit. It’s just as Reis said with the “Unsung Heroes” post.
      E_C

To Christina

In response to your comment, Sergio Conceicao was in 2002 and early 2003 a very dangerous player but somewhat lost his way and ended up in Belgium which means he is pretty much off the radar. Picking him now would be like picking a player in the English second division. Vitor Baia was one of the victims of Felipao’s reign and was never played under him despite still being in good form until recently.

Portugal have done well to get so far in the competition and we should all be proud cos lets not forget that this is a country with a population not much larger than London. As I said earlier in the tournament, our chance of winning the world cup relied on Pauleta turning up and proving his worth but he once again failed at the big stage. Nuno Gomes was someone I wanted to see start against France because of his link up play but was left warming the bench.

And once again you take Boa Morte over Quaresma when he obviously didn’t want to use Boa at all. Quaresma would have been the ideal replacement for Figo as he tired in the 2nd half but much like the English situation with why Bent wasn’t chosen over Walcott we will never quite know. Lets all hope we beat the Germans and go out on a high as no one else will be hoping we do. Forca Portugal!
      Figinho

Unlucky, Please play fair

I am an England fan, just returned from Germany, I am not bitter at the loss to Portugal. Losing is not a bad thing as long as you play well and fair. Rooney should have dived to the floor when first challenged instead he fought on and stood on your player. Our ten men were gallant and played well, the one thing though that gives me pride is we never cheated, never dived on the floor like 10 year olds in a park.

French fans berated Ronaldo for all his talent he threw himself to the floor trying to con the referee on more than one occasion. This would not give me a sense of pride, the same way I feel about hooligans. I made friends in Germany who love football in a world cup anyone can beat anyone all the teams are good enough. Cheating however is best left at home and I hope for prides sake your national football team endeavour to change this side of their game.
      James Barnett

Thank you Portugal

Moura 74 your last post was summed it up perfectly. We ticked all the boxes apart from having a quality in-form striker who could lead the line on his own. Not sure about Sam’s shouts for Scolari to resign. Think Big Phil is still the right man for the job as no doubt Portugal will now go through a mini transitional period with players like Quaresma & Moutinho becoming more prominent and would benefit from Scolari’s style.

Last night we outplayed the French, none of their big players performed they basically turned up won a dubious penalty, scored it then defended deep. Sam - I understand your frustrations but Portugal haven’t ‘dived’ or ‘feigned’ injuries anymore than the Germans, Italian, French or Brazilians, the only difference being the way the media and in particular the English media portray Portugal. We beat England. Deal with it instead of looking for a scapegoat. Last night the media reported that the majority of the neutral & French crowd were booing Ronaldo - fact is over 9,000 tickets were bought by premature England fans who thought they would go through at the expense of Portugal and instead of going home with their team (some did which accounts for the empty seats) they decided to turn up and berate Ronaldo.

Against the odds Portugal exceeded my realistic expectations, now I look forward to a team who in the next few years will evolve AND realise their full potential. As for Mourinho managing the national side, his time will come. I feel domestically with Chelsea he would like to retain the title and win the CL, then maybe manage in Italy or Spain before even thinking about becoming the national manager. For now let’s congratulate the players and thank Big Phil for guiding Portugal into the Semi Finals of the World Cup. Forca Portugal - para sempre
      Semiao

Bad examples

I am afraid to say we are a shocking example of all that is wrong in football. Diving, diving, diving. We have skill and class but why does Ronaldo, Figo an a few others bring shame on us with these antics. We expected it from Deco but I was really embarrassed watching the game with some French colleagues.
      Zavier

Again

Regardless of the penalty... Just like in Euro 04, we lost another big game because of poor finishing. However, at least we are moving in the right direction... We need a Center Forward that can score, or move to the 4-4-2 formation. No one on the Portuguese team can play forward by themselves. We left a lot of talent on the bench too long. I’d like to see Simao, Postiga come in much earlier; or, Viana or Boa Morte come in the game. Next level means being able to score goals, and close teams out. Not winning on penalty shots when you have one man advantage... Hopefully, Scolari stays, or we get someone good. He was the biggest reason we got so far. This Portuguese team was far and away the best mentally prepared team ever...
      Moura74

Where are the players?

okay; I’m from missisauga Ontario Canada, I’m Portuguese, 14 yrs; and I’ve followed Portugal in all of their matches [in euro, world cups]. Where did Conceicao go, I thought he was amazing in 2002, why didn’t he play in Germany?? I’m not for sure about Vitor Baia (not sure I spelled it right] but he was an AMAZING goalie, so is Ricardo but where did Vitor go?? Did he retire or just not play. Anyway VIVA Portugal all the way
      Christina

Scolari should resign!

IMHO it’s time for “Big Phil” Scolari to resign as Portugal national coach. In the first half of last night’s breath-taking semi-final against France, Portugal was excellent against a very strong opponent managing to nullify their star players, yet in the second half under what appeared Scolari’s direction and blessing -- and including the bench! -- the players resorted to ugly unsporting “diving” and “feigning injury” tactics for free kicks to be awarded at almost every opportunity and for penalties in the box on ridiculously far too many occasions forgetting alarmingly the best course of action was to continue in their first-half positive vein: mark your opponent heavily restricting his movement, control possession and mount attacking wave after attacking wave.

Instead Portugal threw it all away. Yet again! Golden opportunity lost for the highly talented and skilful Portuguese to proceed to their first-ever World Cup final all due to the coach employing silly tactics at crucial periods in that very unsatisfactory second half. Many of the incidents where Portuguese players dived to the ground in supposed agony or as victims of foul play clearly showed on slow-motion replay -- and the camera doesn’t lie! And yet from the sideline Big Phil continued to encourage such stupid unsporting tactics. It’s just not on – Scolari’s time is up! Please go now quietly!

The sooner Jose Mourinho takes the reins to prepare the national team for Euro 2008 & World Cup 2010 in South Africa, the better for the Portuguese nation and the success and pride of their national football team! Viva Portugal!!! Viva!!!
      Sam

Can they do it?

I am writing before the match but I think today we will beat France. This team deserves it. But most important, this country and almost 270 million Portuguese speaking people around the world deserve it. Please rise the flag and take it to the highest poll of Berlin. FORÇA PORTUGAL!
      Rudolfo

Portugal team in WC

I am 13 years, and have followed the Portuguese team into the WC. I admire greatly the goalkeeper and my favourite is Figo. I am part Portuguese from Melbourne, Australia and wish all the best for my team against France tomorrow. VIVA PORTUGAL!!!
      Christino de Rozario

Ricardo hero

I like football. But the best is Portugal. I like Ricardo. He is better than other goalkeepers. I like Deco too. He is very good player, but my dream is to meet Ricardo... Portugal can win the World Cup!
      Erika (Erikardo!)

Message to Nata

Although I agree with some of your observations, such as the ref lost control of the game, my opinion is that your assessment is somewhat off. Portugal did what they had to do to defend themselves against an overly aggressive and downright dirty Holland team, who were obviously out to intentionally hurt players (ie, Ronaldo). And yes, great teams always do what they have to in order to win. Did we watch the same game?
      Carlos

Paulo Ferreira is still the best

It’s true that defender Renato Paulo Ferreira is better than Miguel. But, I know that although Miguel is the right choice for Scolari, still Scolari didn’t know what a great performer Paulo Ferreira is. Although he is still on bench, Paulo never got annoyed with that decision. Keep your self up!
      Hall

Sportsmanship and Honour

Please, Portugal use your skill and teamwork in Saturday’s game to overcome England. Do not resort to the shameless playacting evident in the Netherlands game in spite of poor refereeing. If you can not win by playing fair then it is time to go home.
      Dancer

Whatever it takes to win

On the game with Holland, Tom Kundert of ESPN.com recently said: “There were so many heroic performers where can one start....Figo was leadership personified.” What about when Figo intentionally head-butted a Dutch player and got away with it? What kind of leadership is that? The fact that fans are proud of his behaviour in that game shows just how far off course Portugal’s footballing culture has strayed.

Another Portugal fan below says: “Portugal does not lack sportsmanship. We had no red cards in 4 years before the last match.” Does he mean Portugal had no red cards since the time a Portuguese player punched the referee in a game against the U.S. at the last World Cup? This is the world’s biggest stage, and now in the last two World Cups we have seen (repeated) acts of intentional physical aggression by Portuguese players. These are not rogue players, but celebrated favourite sons like Figo.

What else can we conclude but that Portugal is willing to do whatever it has to win? You can blame bad refereeing (which affected both sides), but the question is: when the referee loses control of the game like he did in that one, do your players rise above and maintain their poise? Or do they contribute to (or I would even argue, take advantage of) the situation because it’s a trademark part of how they unnerve their opponent, and ultimately win? For Portugal it may be time to look in the mirror and ask that question, because it sure looked like the latter to me.
      Nata

Only one team can win

Look, two great teams are about to play in one of three potentially awesome quarterfinal games. The game between England and Portugal is no less a classic than that of Germany Argentina or France Brazil. Only one team can win. It is a shame, but a truly great team will finish their world cup on Saturday.

All I want is to be proud of the performance of England. Just once I’d like to see my team play the kind of football we saw against Germany in 2001, Holland in Euro 96 or Croatia in Euro 2004. Portugal have played the best football of the competition so far, so I’ve no doubt they will live up to their half of the game. Even the Netherlands game was great to watch, in spite of the referee doing his best to ruin it. This match will be classic, one that’s remembered for years to come, one that features easily a dozen (or more) of the world’s best players. There will be no shame for the loser, because as with the other two great quarterfinals - whoever goes home will know they were beaten by a team that can win the tournament.

I hope it’s England that wins - but I don’t think it will be. Your players are producing the goods, your coach is probably the best in the world, and your football is better than Brazil’s. If England win it will be a miracle, a happy one for me, but nonetheless a miracle. But whoever does win I truly hope they go on to win the whole thing.
      Andy

England v Portugal great football

England v Portugal games are always great football matches with goals. I expect this one to be the same. It's a pity Owen and Deco cannot play but I hope who wins the match will win the World Cup. England and Portugal are the oldest allys. Let's not fight!!
      Paula

Re: Play-actors

Mexico 86, Portugal 1-0 England, Euro 2000 Portugal 3-2 England, Euro 2004 Portugal win on penalties. I understand why you are preparing excuses already.
      Sérgio

Re: Angel Eyes, Sounds like you’re scared

Portugal does not lack sportsmanship. We had no red cards in 4 years before the last match. Holland tried to beat us by kicking us, but we would not be downtrodden by their tactics. We used their own game and won. If England are such great sportsmen, why did Gerrard blatantly dive to win a penalty in a recent match. Maybe its one rule for England and another rule for the others…
      PorTuga Forever

Portugal are play-actors

Cheap shots and crybaby acting to win at the cost of sportsmanship. That was what I saw against the Netherlands. I am looking forward to seeing England send them home weeping like the spoiled children they are. How can anyone be a fan of such butterflies?
      Angel Eyes

Deco

As an England fan I wanted to commiserate with the Portuguese for the loss of Deco to a truly appalling decision. Even though it probably would have spelt the end of England’s World Cup, I really wanted to see him play on Saturday, the game will surely be poorer without his class lighting up the game. I’m not sure about the other sending off - I didn’t see that one, but if the second half performance of this referee is anything to go by, I don’t doubt that he should also be playing on Saturday. Still you guys have truly world class players to replace them, so I wouldn’t worry too much. It seems that Sven just can’t see that Gerrard and Lampard can not play in the same team, so without Lennon counterbalancing Cole, we’ll definitely lose to Portugal, probably 2:1. Good luck, and here’s hoping we get a decent ref that can control the game at the weekend.
      Andy Bright

!Viva Portugal!

I love soccer but what’s more is I love PORTUGAL! I believe we have one of the strongest teams out there this World Cup season. We have some amazingly talented players who I know will carry us along to the end! I do have a question though that I keep getting different answers to. Do the yellow cards carry over to the next game?!? Or do our boys start each new game with a clean slate?!? Can someone please get back to me and let me know! thank you so much! FORCA PORTUGAL!!!
      Christina
[Yellow cards from the group stage do not carry over to the knock-out stage. Starting from the first knock-out match yellow cards carry over. Two yellow cards = 1 match suspension. TK]

Only Brazil can stop Portugal

I am from United Arab Emirates - Dubai. I am a big fan of Portugal National Team since EURO 2000. I am a great believer in the skills and talents of Sergio Conceicao, the team needs him big time as well as Rui Costa - to an extent. I think Pauelta is not that much successful when it comes to international competitions such as EURO or World Cup so why not have Nuno Gomes Instead? Portugal got the best talents and skills in Europe, and in this world cup they can only be stopped by Brazil. Forca Portugal Love you all.
      Flawless

To Carlos

First things first man. Your prediction of a Portugal v Brazil final can’t really work cos if both top their group they will meet in the semi finals. I have to admit have said 4 the last year that Argentina are my favourites to win the tournament as they have such a strong squad and play really good team football but there’s no-one else I would worry about and as we cannot meet them till the final we will have a good chance this year as long as Ronaldo stops trying to do it all himself and sorts out his crossing. Also Pauleta has to make his mark now. Portugal v Argentina final and who knows what will happen then. Forca Portugal
      Figinho

'Experts' don't get it

Here we are. Final game in the group stages. Portugal vs Mexico. A sure passage into the knock-out rounds...and we still can’t get any respect. Yeah, sure, most people say half-decent things about Portugal, but at the end of the day, when you hear these announcers ranting and raving about such teams as England, France, Holland, Italy, etc, you would think that they are the second coming. Then when you see the performance that these teams actually render, you can’t help but scratch your head.

Yet when Portugal plays, and completely dominates and controls the game, these same people dismiss such performances as luck or suspicious play. Gentlemen, are we watching the same game? Dang, what are these chaps smoking? Oh well, such is life. I guess our boys will never really get any respect, until we actually win something. This is only natural I guess. Portugal vs Brazil final...you heard it here first.
      Carlos

Manuel C is a turkey

Manuel C, what are you on about? You clearly don’t know what your saying. Scolari needs to use Boa-Morte for the Mexico game & you will see that the subs are more than just B-graders. The fact that Portugal is the most underrated team in the World Cup suits us fine, Portugal could make it all the way to the final & nobody would notice us. Go Portugal.
      Nelson

World Cup Fever

I’m one of the biggest soccer fans yu will find out here!! let me tell you how much I LOVE portugal.. Born in Canada but both parents and whole family born there and I’ve been there numerous times. So lets talk soccer.

Allrighty as you can see by the name.. EU AMO O DECO.. I think he is a great player.. takes the best free kicks and the best corners.. have been a fan of his since he first played for porto (sim FC PORTO fan.. VIVA o PORTO)

I am tired of friends or just people in general saying that we played bad or we coud’ve done better on Sunday. Any team could always do better WE WON DIDN’T WE!? yes so stop complaining - 1 goal or not we still won the game.

And I gotta give props to PAULETA. I don’t care what anyone says.. that he scores goals only against small teams. I didn’t see anyone else score on Sunday. He won the game for us. FORCA PORTUGAL!!
      MiiZZ DECO

Portugal set for good World Cup

Yes, I am of Portuguese descent but I was born in America and am very realistic about Portugal’s chances. I DO think they will lead the group; furthermore, I am also of the opinion that if they avoid Argentina... they can have a nice semi-final appearance at best! FORCA PORTUGAL!
      John

Unsung heroes

I’ve read all the comments and as usual Portuguese fans fail to mention some of the best players on the squad 1.Maniche - have you ever seen the man miss on long range? Everyone talks on how the other midfielders do but without Maniche, Portugal would not be the same 2. Ricardo Carvalho - he is the best defender on the squad (and has won the European Defender of the Year Award) and EVERY GAME GETS NO CREDIT. AS LOYAL FANS WE MUST REALIZE THAT FIGO, DECO and Ronaldo can’t do everything. Forca Portugal!
      Reis

Play with passion

Portugal, Ronaldo especially, began the match as if it was theirs. I trust Scolari to have noticed this and to address it in full. Portugal will play with passion and not make the same mistake against Iran. The starting XI should be the same, and the match should be over by half time. Peace, Portugal fan in America.
      dj

Scolari genius

I think Scolari is a genius. I am a little worried about Cristiano Ronaldo getting another yellow card for being a hot head and same with simao. I didn’t like to see simao push another Angola player for no apparent reason. That was poor sportsmanship. Yes simao is good but I think he has a big head and could hurt our team in the long run. Like Joao Pinto did in 2002. We don’t need that type of attitude on the selecao.
      Ruben Gouveia

Simao...Simao...Simao!!!

Being a Portuguese based in the UK I don’t really get the chance to watch Benfica play often (wouldn’t want to anyways cos I’m a Sporting Boy) but it just seems to me that Simao’s performances in the Portugal shirt do not warrant his inclusion in the first 11. I realise that Deco was out but Simao had an absolutely woeful match last night but didn’t seem to be bothered. He lost the ball countless times, he mistimed tackles, he failed to deliver telling crosses when played into space and had no success against ANY of the Angolan players.

I was tearing my hair out last night. I wasn’t expecting Portugal to hammer Angola just pick up the 3 points and minimal bookings BUT what I did expect was for all the players to show professionalism and the skill-set that Mr Scolari saw in them to pick them in his squad. I just get the impression that Simao is very arrogant and thinks he is a better player that he actually is...this is just my opinion. I’ve seen him play for Benfica maybe 12 times last season mainly in the CL and wasn’t overly impressed with him and at times you could see he was just treading water...I maybe wrong and no doubt some Benfica fans will think differently.

Yesterday’s result was a good result and it’s good to see Figo on form and running at pace with the ball (has this guy gained pace in the last 18 months??). Portugal should be able to get victories against Iran & Mexico and the performances both individually and collectively can only get better as they progress. FORCA PORTUGAL
      Semiao

Defence

The Portuguese team is awesome, especially Figo, one of the worlds best wingers, and Ronaldo, no youngster in this world should be compared to him, Deco to mention a few names, but my fear is will the defence hold. What’s the point of scoring 10 if you will concede 11. Will the defence hold? I hope it does.
      adetola

Portugal rules

I am half Portuguese and half Italian. However, my heart is with Portugal.
      Sandra Miccolli

Easy build up

Portugal should have played 1 strong team in preparation for the world cup. After cruising through such an easy group playing such weak opposition gives us no clue of their current form. Althogh I do think we have a great chance at the world cup but much will depend on the form of Pauleta who has to produce this time.

Quaresma had to go to this world cup he was the best player in Portugal this season and has become more of a hard working team player which is shown by the fact he topped the assist charts. He also gives us something more to bring from the bench, which cannot be said about Boa Morte. But the decisions have been made and as no one is talking about Portugal we may surprise the world.
      Figinho

Portugal can win it and will win it

I’m a huge Portugal fan and with the huge talented midfield and strong defensive defence wit the excellent Pauleta we can win it.
      No. 1 Portugal fan

Portugal in form

Portugal has an in-form team, after that 4-1 victory it shows the quality of the team and how great of a team Portugal can produce, with players like Costinha, Maniche and Petit all fighting for a starting position in the midfield, competition is good for the team, Simao and Ronaldo fighting for a place as well even though its more likely Ronaldo will start. If Quaresma was on the team it would have put pressure on Ronaldo to play harder to keep his spot and defend once in a while, but Portugal have a quality team and can easily get out of the group stage and go to the finals!
      Richard

Quality is there

I think it’s a good squad really. Maybe Scolari should have taken Quaresma or Moutinho, but experience is important with the big tournaments. I think Portugal have as good a chance as any of the European sides. You see Portuguese players at most of the big sides in Europe so the quality is there. I would like to have seen Andrade there as he is Portugal’s best defender in my view, but there is a great squad and a manager who knows how to win. It could be Portugal’s year.
      Chris

Re: Going nowhere

I do not agree with the above theme, it’s too premature to discuss about striking ability. Strikers nowadays have to perform under tremendous pressure, have other responsibilities. It all depends how coolly you intercept a pass from Ronaldo & co and slot the ball through the keepers legs. Remember that terrible miss by Cristiano Ronaldo during the final against Greece 2004, who had only to chip the ball just a metre over the keeper’s head . Nao Faz Mal, 2 years hence, Ronaldo is matured and will score . VIVA PORTUGAL
      Ilcid Rosa

Don’t get too carried away PORTUGAL

I think Portugal has great players but they don’t seem to be able to finish of in the big league. I would love them to go to the semi-finals but I doubt it...
      Ailsa Rodrigues

Squad selection

Who can complain with the line-up that Scolari decided on? Quaresma was not ready and Scolari knew that. He’s the type of player that is very fun to watch, but picks up a yellow card in the 8th minute. We cannot have a player like that at this World Cup. 2002 was too painful to even mention...

I am glad Boa Morte and Viana were included as well because they are naturally left-footed players. Boa Morte is a real work horse in the Prem (not to mention the Captain) and he will be rewarded with some quality PT. Have you seen Viana shoot...enough said. Tiago has really shown his true potential at Lyon and he will also be a shining star for us. If we can play disciplined and smart THROUGHOUT the group stage, there is no reason we cannot make a push for the final! FORCA PORTUGAL!!!!
      Michael Agostinho

Bad choice

Petit’s a scrub.. always has been, always will be. I’d much rather have left him and taken someone like Tomas or Quaresma.
      George

This is a joke

One of the biggest mistakes bring Hugo Viana, Ricardo Costa and Postiga. They could have brought so many other better players. JOAO TOMAS this guy is an imitation of the Mario Jardel we all remember him I should hope. Second I’m not saying we need Ricardo Quaresma but he would be a lot better then Viana. This guy didn’t even have that good of a year when he was with Sporting so I don’t know how he got there.

Thirdly Ricardo Costa is not the greatest defender. Why couldn’t they bring Pedro Emanuel? These are mistakes that could cost Portugal in the World Cup we work so hard to build these players. Joao Tomas would be good to have as a third string striker behind Nuno Gomes and Pauleta the big man up front. Well hopefully we can just hope for the best and see what will happen this June.
      Daniel

Quaresma left out

I think it is a great injustice that Quaresma again has been left out of the senior level. He more than deserves a shot to shine in front of the world. I don’t really understand Scolari. He can obviously see the talent Ricardo possesses and still does not take him. I think it is sad to see Ronaldo shine and Quaresma to take a backseat. They are both equally good and together on the wings they would dominate the competition.

However Scolari will take Hugo Viana and Deco (who has not impressed me one bit at Barcelona). Quaresma is one of the best players Portugal has to offer and I believe he will regret this decision. I mean we praise Scolari so much but if you all remember he did let us lose to Greece not once but twice....
      Roberto

Quaresma's time will come

I’m a Porto fan so I now how great Queresma is, and without a doubt he is my favourite Porto player with so much skill and flair: anyone see that goal against Rio Ave? But I understand Scolari has not picked him as he is still a young player and it will make him want to work harder for next time when he’ll be more mature. I think being at U-21 squad will do him good, especially being captain as it will improve his influence and teamwork as sometimes he can be a bit selfish.
      O Ciganito

The final team

I more or less agree with Scolari’s final picks. There are obviously a couple of debatable choices, but at the end of the day, you can never make everyone completely happy. What everyone has to keep in mind is that Scolari’s job was to pick a TEAM, that will work together as a team, NOT to pick an all-star selection. Sometimes that means choosing someone who might not be the top performer at that position, but who can best compliment someone else. Chemistry is the key if Portugal expects to go far. Sure, Quaresma and Tomas, not to mention Santos, could have made the team, but who exactly would they have replaced, Figo? Ronaldo? Pauleta? Hum... Chances are they would be warming the bench.

I guy like Quaresma is much better off right now leading the U21 than playing water-boy on the senior team. Generally, a very strong team with great midfield depth. Defence is also strong. Andrade is obviously a great loss but Fernando Meira and Costa should help fill the gap. I’m glad to see both Boa Morte and Tiago made the team. I think they will both fit in nicely. Oh, by the way Ernando, Rui Costa has retired from international play, but even if he hadn’t, I do not think he has what it takes anymore to make the national team. Força Portugal!
      Carlos Madruga

Rui Costa

Where is Rui Costa? It's very strange that Rui Costa is not selected.
      Ernando

What's going on

Where the hell is Joao Tomas?
      George

Portugal can win!

Of course Portugal could win the World Cup so long as Portugal doesn’t underestimate their opponents and they play as a team and don’t let the hype get to them. Viva Portugal!
      Maria Rivers

Nuno Gomes must play

Though Nuno Gomes hasn’t played much in the last few Portugal games, he has a great history of assisting and/or scoring for the Portugal team in past years. Also though he has been out of the game for an injury while playing for Benfica, he is in tip top shape for World Cup 2006. So from one full blooded Portuguese-Canadian to you Scolari, yes you, pretty please with a cherry on top pick Nuno to be in the 2006 World Cup Portuguese squad. THANK YOU
      Patricia

Re: Portuguese wine

Vinho verde’s a good wine, but I prefer a good red wine form the Alentejo. I’m so confident that Tiago deserves a place that I’ll send you a bottle of white and red wine if he doesn’t get in!
      O Ciganito

Just drink some Portuguese wine

I think you're all talking a load of rubbish... What you all need is a good glass of vinho verde. Contact fontedaesperanca@hotmail.com
      António Jorge

Tiago & Andrade

Although I am a Porto fan, and so love Costinha and Maniche I would probably have to agree with Chirs that Tiago should play. Maniche and Costinha haven’t played much football this year and so a regular first team player who is fit and has been playing regularly should be picked. I think Tiago is great and it’s good to see a Portuguese doing well abroad so I think he deservers a place for the hard work he has put in this season for Lyon.

It’s a real shame Andrade can’t be at the World Cup. He’s a great defender and I don’t think anyone will be able to replace him. Who would be the best candidate in his place?
      O Ciganito

We’ll win under Scolari

Portugal have the players to go the whole way through The World Cup. Let’s take one match at the time. Angola, Iran and Mexico it couldn’t be easier? and I don’t wanna cry so please let us make it through and don’t dump like Euro 2004. I still remember the pain :(
      Zakaria Ahmed

Oh Mourinho… where art thou?

The day this unbelievable coach holds the reins of the Portuguese national side, we will be playing true Portuguese football. He has a gift and until Portugal sees past his arrogance and demanding rituals and give him the job, unfortunately you will not see Portugal win anything, let alone a world cup.
      L Correia

Pretty football?

In response, you said Portugal play pretty football, and I agree with players such as Ronaldo, Quaresma, Simao, Figo, etc. but Portugal will not win if they just play pretty. They need to be both physical and work as a unit, Portugal has players that can create something out of nothing and that can help them win the world cup. Brazil are a team which plays similar to Portugal. If these teams square off then the winner would be whoever wants it more.
      Richard

Missing Vitor and Sergio

Madruga, I agree with a large part of your analysis, especially about a world class goalkeeper or lack there of. I’m still a bit pissed that Scolari yanked Baia years ago and still has yet to call up Conceicao. In my opinion, Vitor was the spirit of the Portuguese team.

In addition, I think that Pauleta has to feel hot. He is in the best shape of his life but he seems to play cyclically from good to great to mediocre ad nauseum. Scolari should start Gomes at the end of Pauleta’s hot streak. Both are world class strikers, contrary to ACMilan’s witless comment.

I know a lot of you love Deco, but I think he plays his best with Barcelona - I hope this changes. Having said all that, I still think Portugal has every chance of winning the World Cup. PS I’m not Portuguese, but I think they play the prettiest football in the world.
      j.d. rasmussen

Tiago must play

Surely Tiago must be fit to start for Portugal at the World Cup after how good he has played for Lyon this season. If Scolari picks the mercenaries like Costinha or Maniche ahead of the hard working Tiago, then it will be too bad for Portugal because every side needs a player like Tiago.
      Chris

I beg to differ Mr. Findlay

Reading your comments in the last posting, it is blatantly obvious that you know very little about the Portuguese National Team, and Scolari’s plans and secret weapon: Porcinho! Yes, that’s right, Porcinho. Contrary to your misguided belief, Porcinho is not to be used as a lethal striker, but rather as an unexpected replacement for Ricardo between the pipes. His portly shape will ensure that no opposition goals will even have a chance of finding the depths of the net.

So there you are, Porcinho is actually a growing menace to opposing strikers and a future legend to be reckoned with. As for Ricardo, he will be used strictly for scoring goals in penalty shoot-outs against England. See ya at the Worlds!
      Carlos Madruga

Too heavy to win!

With an average weight of over 15 stones a man it seems unlikely that the pie-tasting Portuguese will go past the group stage in Germany. “Yes, we’re pretty fat but a lot of the lads make the ball do the work” said an optimistic manager when asked to comment on the size of Portugal’s international footballers.

16 year old wonderkid Porcinho, weighing in at a mere 14st 10lbs was also quick to poor cold water over the rumours: “So I like a good Pizza and a few ales before a game - so what? When you can ping the ball like me, you don’t need to run.” It remains to be seen whether Porcinho’s comments will come back to haunt him at this year’s world-cup finals.
      Peter Findlay

Mighty Midfield

As a lifetime Portugal fan and a 2nd generation Portuguese I am extremely excited about our chances this summer. Depth was talked about and I think we have it, although not in every position. I think if Rui Costa came out of retirement (which isn’t going to happen) that would give Deco some cover because he does have a knack for picking up yellow cards.

For me, Quaresma just isn’t quite ready for the big time. He still plays with a selfish demeanour that Ronaldo has shrugged off at United. Our forwards will score goals and I think that Pauleta will finally break through whatever ails him in big tournaments and have a strong showing.

Our midfield is in my mind the strongest in the world and although Ricardo worries me at times, he is still a Portuguese hero for the part he played against England in 2004. We will win the group and from there it is anybody’s guess. All I know is that a 2nd round matchup with the Dutch or Serbia and Montenegro is probable. Forca PORTUGAL!!!
      Michael Agostinho

Top 8 finish

About a year ago, I said that if Portugal has a chance to go all the way at the World Cup, then 3 critical things have to happen:

1. Figo had to return. Not for his scoring talent, but for his leadership, maturity and experience at high-level competitions. Mission accomplished.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo has to come out to play. His coming out party. Similar to what Maradona did at his World Cup debut. Granted he’s on a good pace, but will he have the maturity to put it all together? The jury is still out on this one.

3. Goaltending. Portugal needs a world class goaltender. They simply do not have one yet. This is obviously not going to be resolved in time. Too bad.

Result: Portugal will make it to the top 8. The goaltending situation will not allow them to go further than that.
      Carlos Madruga

Let us be underdogs

We can sit here all day and say we can win the cup, but we shouldn’t. The underdog will succeed. Let Italy, England and Holland be in the spotlight as favourites. They are all talk. Italy make excuses and exit early. And we knocked England and Holland out of the last major competition. But let them be in the spotlight. But with players like Quaresma and Ronaldo on the flanks, who wouldn’t be scared.
      João Pinto

Play for the shirt

Portugal have very talented players. Just look all over the world. In the best teams you see in each one a Portuguese player but when it comes to a national team I don’t know what happens but all the players react differently. I think they all want to show up themselves and they play very individually. If Portugal play for the shirt they are wearing yes, yes, yes, PORTUGAL will fly high. The only thing they need to do is play TOGETHER and the Portuguese players MUST play with love for the shirt they are wearing. PORTUGAL have a team to compete with any team in the world.
      Luis Guerra

Where is Conceicao?

Although Conceicao has a temperamental side his recent form definitely warrants a call up to the Portuguese national line up. Portugal needs to strengthen the midfield! I make this statement based on my observations on Deco’s inconsistency at the Euro finals in Portugal. He was exceptional in most games but I couldn’t help noticing that on every 2nd game he seemed a bit out of steam. Conceicao can play on the right and he is a midfielder that can play forward just like Deco. I’ve seen the video footage of Standard Liege’s Goals on their site and Conceicao features in most of them. There is a particular video of his goal from a free kick! Its an absolute stunner!
      Ivo

Semi's at best

It would be a huge accomplishment if Portugal makes it to the semi-finals. Wishful thinking aside, that’s the best that can be expected & the best that Portugal can accomplish. Yes, Portugal has a gifted team, & yes they can beat anyone on any given day. In fact, just to get to the semi-finals they’ll have to beat 2 very good teams (potentially a Holland or Argentina & England). Look at the brackets & you’ll see that’s the path before you get to Brazil in the semi-finals.
      Dan B.

Players genuinely believe Portugal can win it

Portugal have a magical team that has to be considered as potential winners of this years WC along with Argentina, Holland & Brazil. Where Portugal have lacked in the past was mentally through lack of discipline, but now I believe they can match any team in the world for skill and physical and mental strength. The Defence is solid (Goalkeeper maybe weak position), the Midfield is dynamic, creative and disciplined and the front line WILL score given the service whether it be Pauleta, Almeida, Postiga or Boa Morte that plays.

Just look around you the French, Spanish & Italian to name a few would love to have the crop of players we have. We can do it and I believe that players like Deco, Figo, Pauleta, Ronaldo, Carvalho genuinely believe that can win it and will be doing everything in their powers to bring the WC to Portugal. This is the best chance Portugal have had to win a major trophy in a long time and with a little bit of luck who knows....one things for sure it can’t be a worse performance than Japan 2002!!
      Semiao

Midfield magic

Portugal can win the World Cup. That’s if they play well and if the manager picks the right team. They have great options in midfield: Figo-Deco-Maniche-Ronaldo or Ronaldo-Deco-Rui Costa-Quaresma.
      Liverpool fan

Re: Going nowhere

In agreement with David, ACMilan has no clue what he is talking about, clearly he doesn’t watch football, how stupid can you be. I mean Portugal have players like Ronaldo, Figo, Quaresma, Simao, Deco, Pauleta, just to name a few. You need to watch football because you are talking utter rubbish!
      Richard

World class striker

In response to ACMilan, if Portugal don’t have a world class striker, then why was Pauleta the top scorer in European qualifying? Also, Postiga plays well for the national team and scores key goals. Also, Portugal don’t need one good goalscorer when they have so many talented midfielders who can also create goals from nothing. Even some of their defenders have been looking dangerous offensively lately. A great team is more valuable than one hotshot up front who can be marked and shutdown so easily.

And lastly, Portugal’s traditional weakness up front looks as if it will soon end with the likes of Manuel Fernandes and other young talent. Euro 2008 and world cup 2010 watch out! And even Germany 2006 could be in for a surprise. AND, if Mourinho ever takes over the National team, then we’re really the ones to beat. Not that Scolari isn’t already pretty amazing though.
      David

Going nowhere

Portugal are going nowhere. They do not have a world class striker, they are lucky that they have the easiest group in the World Cup.
      ACMilan

Wing wonders

I’m from Trinidad and Tobago, but the team I love is Portugal. These two wingers, Ronaldo and Quaresma, are two very attacking players and both of them deserve to be in the squad. With other wingers such as Simão and Figo also on the team it may be hard for Quaresma to play, at least that’s what people say. I think he is one of the greatest wingers of this generation. He and Ronaldo are a deadly pair, and can create chances out of nothing. With defensive players such as Costinha and Petit, Ronaldo and Quaresma should lead Portugal’s attack along with Deco, Figo and Pauleta.

A team for Portugal to watch out for in the knock outs is Trinidad and Tobago. They are a team which is coming to prove to the world how great they really are.
      Richard

Stability needed

With the world cup looming upon us I feel that Portugal need to create a stable first 11, which was lacking in 2002 and in the first game of 2004 where names were chosen over form. Being in Germany should give us a good chance since the climate will suit us and preparations will be easier to control, unlike in Japan and Korea. Perhaps areas of worry will be goalkeeping, Ricardo an excellent shot stopper but any thing more...Moreira still not ready for the big time and Quim not quite up to standards required. Left back is another worry, is Valente to be picked? Any other alternatives?

However the form of Nuno Gomes is encouraging and with such quality available such as Andrade, Carvalho, Maniche, Costinha, Ronaldo, Deco, Simao, Pauleta and our talismanic captain Figo we should be very confident of success. Victory? Perhaps but lets not be too confident since we seem to thrive on playing with the underdog tag
      Oscar S

Why no Conceição?

Is there any specific reason why Solari isn’t prepared to take Sérgio Conceição in the squad for Germany? He’s performing extremely well in Belgium, and is likely to win the prestigious Gold Boot in Belgium. He’s scoring like before, and has a foot in every goal. Is it because of his character? Or are there any other reasons?
      Marc C

Great chance

I think Portugal has great chances at the world cup, but I’m not sure they will win it...Perhaps they will go to the semi-finals or more...I don’t know. I agree with Paulo: don’t forget 2002!
      Philippe

Scolari overrated

I believe the match against Croatia may prove a few of my points about the current Portuguese line-up and Scolari’s weaknesses. Scolari supporters talk about Brazil in 2002 and Portugal in 2004. Anyone could win the World Cup with the Brazilian squad that has been available over the last 8 years or so. And in 2004 Portugal were hosts, which gave us a huge advantage. Yet it took an embarassing defeat to Greece in the opening match for Scolari to play the correct Portuguese line up. Remember he started Couto over Carvalho, and left Deco and C Ronaldo on the bench.

Scolari did well in 2004 because he played Mourinho’s Porto defence/midfield, who were European champions, along with Figo, Miguel, Ronaldo and Pauleta. Had he played Baia in front of Ricardo we may have won it. Yet we lost in the final to a mediocre Greece side, where Scolari did not have the tactical knowledge to learn from our mistakes in the first match...
      Manuel C

Remember 2002

Remember World Cup 2002. That’s all I don’t want to see happen. We have lots of world class players, Ferreira, Quaresma, Simão, Miguel, Maniche besides the obvious Deco, Ronnie, etc. It’s the Petits and Meiras that I don’t want to see. We can win it, we have the team!!!
      Paulo

Scolari's superb record

I totally disagree with Manuel C. It’s obvious Scolari puts more emphasis on creating a strong team spirit than on individual talent or a player’s current form. It’s a policy that’s worked for him well in the past. Led Brazil to be 2002 World Cup champions and Portugal to be 2004 European runners-up. Who can argue with that?
      Benfiquista numero one

Portugal can win it

I don’t see why Portugal can’t win the World Cup. There seems to be a great sense of togetherness and hunger in the squad resulting from last year’s tragic event. It doesn’t matter about how ‘seasoned’ some of these players are, as long as they can support each other on and off the pitch, I think there’s a very good chance.
      Amy H

No chance under Scolari

It is clear that under Scolari, Portugal will achieve nowhere near its potential in the upcoming world cup. A large proportion of the squad are either substitutes (Viana, Caneira etc) or even B-team players (Postiga) at their respective clubs, or are past their prime (Valente, maybe Figo). Only 3 or 4 players are world class and in their prime (Carvalho, Andrade, Deco, maybe Ronaldo) The nation expects, but they should prepare for the worst.
      Manuel C