25 June 2006, by Tom Kundert

Scolari forecasts tight match

“Difference of one goal or penalties” to decide match

Portugal coach, Luiz Felipe Scolari, believes there is next to no difference in quality between his team and Holland.

“Nobody will win the match by a difference of more than one goal, and it may even be decided on penalties,” said the Brazilian.

Scolari was at the helm when host nation Portugal beat the Dutch in the semi-finals of Euro 2004. And the team that takes to the pitch tonight is likely to be identical as that which started the match two years ago, apart from missing the injured Jorge Andrade, who is replaced by Fernando Meira.

However, the World Cup winning coach does not believe the match played in Lisbon will have any bearing on the outcome of tonight’s encounter in Nuremburg. “Holland have completely renewed their team,” he said, heaping praise on opposition coach Marco Van Basten for the job he has done.

Despite Portugal’s excellent record against Holland - five victories and just one defeat in nine matches - Scolari insists his players realise they will have to be at their best to win.

“They know the opponent is strong, and respect them, and even have a bit of fear, which is a good thing.”

Scolari is looking to extend his individual record of ten consecutive victories at World Cup Finals.