18 October 2007, by Paulo Carvalho

Kazakhstan 1-2 Portugal: match reaction

Flavio Murtosa, Portugal interim coach:

“Our project right from the beginning was to earn victories. I liked what we did. I believe we put in a good display. We had some difficulties, which we expected, but we ended up getting a positive result.

“Makakula is having a good season in the Portuguese championship as he is one of the highest goalscorers and today he responded in plenty by scoring a goal.”

Makakula, Portugal striker:

“I am not a hero, we are all heroes. I played with Fernando Meira’s boots which appeared to give me luck. The team conducted itself very well and we are to be congratulated.”

(On his goal): “I felt an abundance of happiness when I scored and I would like to thank God, who guided me. Fortunately, I managed to score and contribute to the victory. The goal was born from Quaresma’s magic, who supplied a great cross and all I had to do was put my head to the ball. I will never forget this goal.”

(On returning to the seleccao): “It all depends on the coach and my form with Maritimo, but I always want to return with great pride and honour.”

Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal forward:

“We knew we were going to encounter a lot of difficulties. Kazakhstan ran and fought hard, as we expected, but we managed to impose our quality and conducted ourselves very well.

“We won two finals with a lot of merit. Now we move ahead towards two more difficult finals. I got back to scoring goals, but my objective is to always give my best to the group.

“I played with Makakula for the U21s and he is a player who I know well. He is very tall and has a strong physique, which is important in these types of games. He started well, helped us and is to be congratulated.”

Ricardo Quaresma, Portugal forward:

“We knew the game was going to be extremely complicated, but in the second half we managed to calm down and create more opportunities. What is important are the three points.

“I always try to give my best, but it does not always come off. In any case, I think that in the second half I was good. What is most important is the seleccao and the victory.”

Related: Kazakhstan 1-2 Portugal: match report
Related: Qualification Group A – Standings / Fixtures / Results