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Portugal's Euro 2008 chances
At Euro 1996 Portugal reached the quarter-finals, at Euro 2000 the semi-finals, and in 2004 the hosts went all the way to the final. Can Scolari's men go that one step further?
Related: Fanszone - Let's help Scolari - Pick Portugal's attack
Related: Fanszone - Let's help Scolari - Pick Portugal's midfield
Related: Fanszone - Let's help Scolari - Pick Portugal's defence
(Posts listed in order they are received.
Most recent posts first)
Most recent posts first)
17/05/2008 21:39
Hi,
I really hope so. I'm cheering for them to win it. They are brilliant players individually. What would help them reach the final as effortlessly as Italy or France is to "gel" as a team. Start winning by more than one goal and not lose the lead like, unfortunately, in their last friendly against Greece in March. Also, no more mistakes by goalkeeper Ricardo.
Take care,
Monica08
http://fanoffutebol.blogspot.com
16/05/2008 16:31
Robertson of the East,
Don`t get me wrong, I too would like to see Portugal win (now that England is out), but we must be realistic. Spain is looking very good. They have some very fine young talent and a good mix of veterans. This might just be their year. But who knows, anything can happen. Lest we forget Greece in`04.
Let`s face it, Ronaldo is not all Portugal has, but there is no doubt that if Portugal expect to go all the way, that Ronaldo has to come out to play. I have said this before and I will say it again, Scolari does not know how to maximize Ronaldo`s talents. He should take a page from Sir Alex`s book. Ferguson has basically structured Man U around Ronaldo. Even Rooney has become a role player for CR7. If you look at any great sports team, in any sport, they always structure the team around their franchise player. Ronaldo is a franchise player. For him to be most effective on the European stage, you have to support him and allow him to roam free. Something that Ferguson has understood, and the results are there for all to see. In Portugal, Scolari has tried to make him just another cog in the wheel, albeit an important one. Anyway, I realize that its easy to be an armchair manager, but we`ll see what happens. But there is no doubt that if Portugal expects to get anywhere at this Euro, that Ronny has to show that he is the best in the world, or at least in Europe. What do you think?
Charles (Dawn) of London
16/05/2008 11:22
Mr. Charles of London,
Your opinion about Maniche and Quim, and also about the young team was was great, we also feel the same.
But, as for the champion to be Spain, that we feel hurt.
There is no guarantee for anything. Football is a game, the outcome is different. We can make prediction, but not the fact.
"Robertson of the East"
15/05/2008 20:01
Obviously, Scolari is trying to leave a legacy. Win or loose, he is setting up a team for the next 3-5 years (as long as the next coach agrees). This is a pretty young team. Not a very big team, but fast. The key will be to get them to gel before the Euro starts. I hope Scolari can pull it off.
I was surprised to see that Maniche wasn't picked. Although he did not have a great club season, he is a clutch player in the big games, and I believe would have been valuable in such a short (6 games) series. Portugal is very strong down the flanks and on defence. Their big challenge remains with the striker position. They have obviously not been able to replace the likes of Pauletta. With such depth along the flanks, what about transforming C7 into a striker? Think about it Scolari. That said, I would have liked to see one less striker and one extra midfielder (Maniche).
Finally, lets get serious Portugal...its more than enough...time to give Quim the starting role and make Ricardo (where he belongs) back-up.
My prediction: Portugal in the final four...Spain wins the Euro.
Charles of London
15/05/2008 12:17
Mr. Orlando Mac,
If your saying that Scolari is not the right coach for Portugal,(PLEASE DON'T CHEER FOR PORTUGAL ANYMORE)
I really feel pity for Makukula for not being selected, he is my hero. I'm a big fan when he was playing for Maritimo.
<Forca Portugal>
15/05/2008 12:11
I think,
Now, we can see clearly where players will be playing (Forward, Midfield, or Defense)
On seeing Scolari’s squad, I think we can know where Fernando Meira will be playing.
But it was a great moment when all of us were giving our own opinions on where they should play. No offense, we all are a big fan of Portugal.
***FORCA PORTUGOAL***
14/05/2008 15:22
Matt
I like your squad although Moutinho & Deco up the middle isn't strong enough for this level of game they both get pushed off the ball too easily and both have disappeared at times this season.
George just to clarify I don't think Maniche is upset with Jorge Ribeiro being on the team.
For one
Ribeiro has been brought in to play the fullback role not a mid role.
and secondly he is his older brother so I don't think he is upset with his younger brother making the team.
He is just upset that he didn't make the selection after all the performances he has put on for As Quinas.
Personally I would have rather have seen Maniche there instead of Petit, as Petit's record is atrocious with the squad and the last team he figured with prominently was booted from the World Cup in South Korea mostly because he was given a defensive role and was never back when they needed him.
We were constantly left with 3 defenders back and got burned by the States and South Korea for it. I have a feeling he is going to start this monstrosity because of experience but the only experiences he has had have been poor.
If that was the case I would've preferred to drop Veloso further back and have played Maniche in the middle behind Deco. If he plays Petit it will be guaranteed loss against Turkey as Tuncay will tear open those holes and score from long range. Hopefully that will never happen this squad can make some noise with the right team play, in the next 2 or 3 tourneys.
14/05/2008 14:11
I'm not exactly brimming with confidence given the way Portugal has played in the qualifying. Having said that, I've watched more than one team struggle to qualify and then go on to win the whole thing. Portugal is loaded with quality. Never have we had so many players playing pivotal roles in BIG clubs. I'm not exactly sure Scolari is the one to bring a championship to Portugal, but there's no doubt that his was important to the teams development. He should be commended for bringing to the team a fighting spirit and winning mentality, something Portugal lacked for decades if not always. If you don't believe you can win...you won't.
We've got the best player in the world at the moment, a solid team and an experienced coach, and also the experience of reaching big games and having lost. There's no reason to believe that Portugal do not have a very good chance this time around. I can't wait.
14/05/2008 09:37
This is the moment I was waiting for; the time when Scolari will reveal his squad.
With these players, the cup is ours.
***FORCA PORTUGAL***
13/05/2008 20:16
My starting line up for Euro 2008!
1-2-2-1-4
ST:Hugo Almeida
LWM:R.Quaresma
RWM:C.Ronaldo (C)
LCM:Deco
RCM:J.Moutinho
CDM:M.Veloso
LB:J.Ribeiro
LCB:R.Carvalho
RCB:Pepe
RB:Bosingwa
GK:Patricio
13/05/2008 18:32
I liked the selections. I feel Postiga who has been in great form in Greece this year would be great up front paired with Hugo almeida. As for losing Maniche....It really doesnt bother me at all. Maniche was horrible this year for club and when he got called up for Euro qualifying he didnt really catch my eye at all. I feel this is a good squad that can take us to the final.
13/05/2008 15:05
Hello Folks!
Have to say I like Scolari's squad. Maniche is out, but time to move on. Not sure about Postiga though. I haven't seen enough of him this year. I have no idea what his form has been like. I feel bad for Tiago, but he can't expect to be named to the roster when he barely played in Italy. Plus, he get's paid alot more money than me. He'll be OK.
Looking forward to our next friendly to see the chemistry of this young squad.
There is plenty of reason for optimism. Leadership and chemistry will be the key. Ronaldo, Carvalho etc. will have to step-up more than ever.
13/05/2008 14:24
i dont understand scolari choice of not putting maniche in the team. why didnt he play jorge ribeiro few games instead one game. maniche has 555 minutes and jorge ribiero 15 minutes. it doesnt make sense. maniche did well and helped out the team at world cup 2006 and euro 2004. i do understand that he good coach. he likes to give suprises, a nonsense one. u heard that maniche is upset. he is upset because scolari choice someone less inexpeirence in the national team not because he was not called. i feel his reason, but can not do anything about.
see what happens, now
viva portugal
13/05/2008 12:33
I support the team selection. How can I argue with a coach who has brought Portugal to their most recognized and successful status consistently? Scolari knows what he is doing and he's been with the team long enough to know what will work. I'm not going to argue that Maniche or Caneira are not there, although I felt Maniche deserved a spot as Scolari has chosen Ricardo, Petit, Nuno Gomes and Postiga again. But this is our team and we must give them our full support. FORCA PORTUGAL!!!!!
13/05/2008 11:19
George has reason. Maniche was brilliant player for Portugal in World Cup Germany and Euro 2004. I now he is not plays too many at Inter Milano but he is better for Portugal always. this is true when he plays bad for his club like at World Cup germany. He did terrible at Chelsea but was brilliant for Portugal.
I think that is a big mistake by mister Scolari.
12/05/2008 20:23
maniche should have been in the group.
17/04/2008 17:53
Heres my linup that I would make up of for the Euro 08
Goalie - Quim...the game vs Sporting for the Tarca de Portugal he played amazing and ricardo is all done w/ Betis and would be better as a backup.
Defenders - Pepe, Bruno Alves, Carvalho, Fernadou Meira
Midfielders- Veloso, Deco {if healthy} Mourtino
Wings - C Ronaldo and Quaresma
Striker...heres my dark horse..Yannick Djalo... Scolari NEEDs to call him up! a pure fast striker! pure therobreed.
Bench - Miguel, Fererria, Boswinga, Almedia, Petit, Simao, Postiga, Tiago, Ricardo, Nuno Gomes,R. Meredies, maniche
30/03/2008 21:53
ORLANDO AND BERTO:
i agree with your comments.
i think scolari should put nuno valente back in the squad. he did real good back in euro 04.
dont know why he took him out of the squad after the euro 04. i think euro 04 and wc 06 couple golden generation players were still good to play for the squad and they are: sergio conceicao, joao pinto, nuno valente, costinha, abel xavier. maybe these players could have been good leaders for the team like luis figo.
30/03/2008 21:44
ORLANDO AND BERTO:
29/03/2008 04:52
Berto I agree with you about the primadona statement. I don't think Scolari is the right Coach, he is a hot head like the players who lets them do what they want which leads to the selfish drivel you see on the pitch. I too remember 86, how we beat the best team in our group and lost to the worst.
As for the final against Greece, the difference between the two sides was that as the pressure came Greece pulled together, where the Nat team became indivdualistic, everyone wanted to win it themselves to be a hero instead of spreading the ball around to create holes. Greece definitely deserved to win, as they did the other day with team work.
It is one of the reasons I chose 4 forwards in my system because at least one of the prima donnas wouldn't be double marked and the chances to score would present themselves although solidifying the D becomes paramount too. At the moment no pressure is coming through the middle and it is easy to defend double mark each ball carrier especially the wings and because they r
28/03/2008 21:56
Orlandomac, our players might be comparable to brazil on paper but they lack that creative unity. brazilians are like magicians with the ball but aside from that they know how to move without the ball also while our players stand around . how many times do you see this scenario: ricardo starts off play by giving it to one of his defenders, the ball is worked up the field nicely all the way to the penalty area and then play will stall. our players are searching the perfect opportunity. the ball is then kicked back to the midfielders then to the defense and sometimes back to the goalie. i see it all the time with our team. when your that close shoot it or have your your forwards charge the goal. a perfect example were 2 of the 3 italy goals against us. a delection from far out and our defender got out hustled on the other goal. I chose argentina and italy to compare because those 2 teams play like there is no tomorrow. portuguese players are prima donnas unfortunately. just like that shit years ago when they
28/03/2008 16:40
I used to tour in a band and met a few ladies in my day, I could swear a few of us are related but never were introduced because these toughts are so similar. Nuno Valente is the classic for me 33 Gms 1 gl a selfless player that resullted in UEFA & EURO Cup for Porto & Final & Semi with the Nat Team. We definitely need more of these players. Not the guys like Petit for example that are supposed to be D & are always pushing forward.
Berto I agree with almost 100% of what you say but Brazil isn't that much better than Portugal beyond depth & that is proven with our results against them. Is Brazil a talented team for sure so is this team don't let a couple of games against strong defensive teams fool you. Portugal is weak mentally that is why they have a hard time with weak teams, a team like the Italians will take on Malta 7
will sit back and force them to move as soon as they do, they counter and before you know it the score is 10-0.
On the other hand our Nat team thinks they are so elite from their clu
27/03/2008 20:31
the reason portugal doesn't win is not because of talent but because they play with no balls on the field and always settle for shit results. I've posted this before. "years ago i was in italy on vacation. italy was playing afriendly with spain and won 2-0. after the game italys coach was interviewed and said " we won the game but i'm not happy with our performance". portugal was also playing a friendly and lost 2-0 our coach was also interviewed and said " we lost the game but i'm satisfied with the way we played". typical portuguese bullshit. it's not that teams like italy or argentina have better talent, but rather that they go out onto the field and create opportunities or "luck" as some say, by busting their asses for 90 minutes. portugal approaches these games as if their going for a stroll in the park. they go onto the field and want to score the "creative" or "beautiful" goal. what's the point of the game? to play creative soccer or score goals. there is only one team in the world t
27/03/2008 16:36
Orlando,
I couldn't agree more. Scolari has done great things for Portugal, but this team is now in dire need of a strict leader. Yes, we have striker issues, but so do many other teams (including Greece). What drives me crazy about this team is the indulgent individual play of Quaresma and Ronaldo and the fact that the wing backs are constantly caught out of position. It's no surprise that the best defensive performance Portugal has registered was in the WC with Valente at LB. He's unspectacular, but solid and stays home on defense. Caneira and Ferreira are decent going forward, but weak on D. Hopefully, Bosingwa and Miguel will claim starting berths, but those 2 also tend to go forward too much.
There is no excuse for such shoddy defending with the likes of Carvalho, Meira, Alves and Pepe available just as there is no excuse for the indulgent play of our stars. The problem is one of discipline and Scolari is not instilling it.
Unfortunately, I don't know that the next coach will do any
27/03/2008 15:11
George my friend what they need is two words, Team work. I only caught the end after the subs and the goal it wasn't too bad as they came close to tying it.
Figo's Generation only at the end of their careers learned how to share the ball and it brought us some success but it seems every generation is destined to make the same mistakes. Our lineup should be feared but when they make it easy for the others to just double and triple mark the individual runs. Take Quaresma's roulette move some dude gave it like four stars on some website but the roulette ended in a turnover. Fancy smancy if it isn't effective then don't use it, period. You want space to make moves create it by sharing it to stretch out the defenses. Scolari doesn't bring that solidifying affect, although in Tournaments he does well. I new that two solid defending teams would present great difficulty as a warm-up but let's be serious better to lose now and have some of that dumb bravado slapped out of some of these players. In the end o
27/03/2008 02:38
i am very dissappointed... they were terrible...
i dont care if ronaldo or nani didnt play, that excuses.
they couldnt even pass right. i can pass better than them. i never seen any professionals pass like little kids. scolari needs to straight them out.
this game is ashame. i am embarressed to even talk about it. this is how they show the world they ready to play for euro 08. they look like they not even going to pass the group.
i cant even say anything anymore, because i am sick of this bull. according to history, why portugal never wins it. first the golden generation team all they knew how to do is fall down and get free kicks and they think they can dominant weak teams and end up losing like to usa in 2002 wc. now is the conquistadors who cant even play a game. what is there wrong? they got the good name players and a great coach. what else do they need?
26/03/2008 23:14
We cant afford to be arrogant and reject a player that might be crucial to the national side.Pepe may well be that man...And after tonights match,and also having in mind that defeat against Italy we're going to need all the "help " we cant get...Take for instance France if they had rejected Zidane cause he was born in Armenia France would have lost one of their most gifted players...Anyway from where i'm standing now,there's no way we're going to win this ...Nuno proved again that he can score against better teams but ain't enough .At this precise momment France,Germany and Italy are the contenders...not us!
18/03/2008 20:33
hey guys
here is what i think about pepe.
if pepe stayed long enough to become a portugese citizen. why not enough to be in the national team. he chose to play for portugal and not for brazil which is proven that he wants to help portugal gain their first title ever. i would be proud if portugal won that title while im living. look at usa its mixture of all kind of cultures. these cultures come to usa gain citizen . this is why usa have the best athletes in the world. usa have won many gold titles in olympics. they just about the best in every sport and they are becoming close to dominant soccer, look at the womens usa soccer team. who can beat them?
so let others help out portugal. if i was the professional soccer player i would want to play for portugal instead of usa. all my family before me are all 100% portuguese. just because im not born in portugal does not mean i dont have the portuguese blood.
so let be for others who in the line of portuguese blood or colonies. i think it is fair enough.
14/03/2008 11:10
good answer orlando... but that's not the answer i'm looking for.
i'll make it simple!
you would give your life for portugal. i would give my life for portugal. but now, would pepe give his life for portugal. or would anybody who had been colonised by us in the past, give their lives for our country.
you see... nowadays, the football field is like a place of war... you must have passion. the best example i can give you is of maniche... he has failed for which ever foreign club he has played for. but when he had played for porto, he has excelled. for portugal, he has been our gattuso. another example is milan baros, who has failed miserably for whatsoever foreign club he has played for. but he has been euro 2004 most valuable player for the czechs.
13/03/2008 01:48
JT you are not alone many disagree with me on the colonizing thing, but a nation of explorers has to count on their flock afar..
With only about 10 Million at home and many more abroad I feel it is justified..
As you can tell living abroad yourself.. many people of other ethnicities would love to play our brand of football..
Now I am not saying we let a Polish guy join the team because he likes the colour of the shirt.. I am saying colonized players..
This will be a bone of contention for a while and each manager might have a different opinion.
11/03/2008 19:14
Hi brother orlando,
i get wat you are trying to say but you know, i just don't see the passion when these brazilians don our colours. yes, we did colonise them... in the past... but c'mon... now that's really a good excuse to play for portugal. yes pepe has been good in patches for real this term and i really like his style but i really do not want him to be playing for portugal.
11/03/2008 10:45
JT from Qatar although I can understand some of the points you are trying to make albeit some are hypocritical (lets get first team guys out but lets give Mendes a shot?)
at least do some research before just spouting off.. Fact is that Pepe played the exact amount of time in Portugal as Deco he also came at a younger age and credits Portuguese Coaching for his success which is a big reason he wanted to play for Portugal.. and Pepe could have played for Brazil he is that good but declined to do so.. whereas Deco didn't have a spot in the Brazil lineup hence his choice to don our colours.. not that I mind.. I believe our forefathers colonizing should be a privilege and an honour to most that would like to play on one of the best teams in the world playing arguably some of the most attractive football on the planet.. and that includes Brazil..
You couldn't find any better defender in the Brazil side than Pepe.. but there are probably 10 better midfielders than Deco..
For Portugal he would be our second
07/03/2008 20:37
we can definitely win euro 2008 but we first need to sort out the team selection. first of all, scolari keeps selecting players in the first XI who have played very little club football being on the bench for their clubs or being injured, which means less exposure. for eg- maniche, gomes, petit. that is a major problem and that should not happen in euro 2008. secondly, pepe should'nt play since he is not portuguese and he is even lesser portuguese than deco. thirdly, we should give more international exposure to the likes of manuel fernandes, everton/ carlos martins, recreativo and pedro mendes, who has sadly started on only a few occasions for his club portsmouth. we need to get the centre midfielders right. I think the best combination would be deco and miguel veloso, master and student. they could have a very good understanding on the field as veloso is a good and fast learner. the maniche, petit, meireles combinations must be ignored. nani could play just behind almeida and please no gomes, no andrade,
03/03/2008 23:23
Hello everybody. I want to share this blog with you, is about the UEFA Euro Cup: http://uefa-cup-2008.blogspot.com/
25/02/2008 09:32
Matt just so you know that position isn't new for Meira he played in that defensive holding role for Benfica before going to Germany so he is very familiar with it, Caneira I believe has played in that role and he is too slow for the wing.
I also would like to see Veloso but not as an anchoring defender.. for me he spreads the ball better than Moutinho & Deco so I see Veloso play further up spreading the balls out between the forwards.. and then coming back to the mid role to provide some extra support.. other candidates for that role would be Maniche and Petit as they both have good shots from long range which helps to stretch defences out and keep them honest.
Part of the qualifying issue was you had too many defenders far up field all at the same time causing gaps at the back that is what I was mentioning about Valente who intelligently played his role..compared to others who jump when we are thin..
Part of Ricardo looking so bad was these gaps. Not that I think he is a great keeper not by any
25/02/2008 00:48
Meira is a defender hes no midfielder Veloso is good on the attack and on the defensive role hes good right where we need him.
yes i saw what happened to Rui Patricio and i feel sorry for him mistakes happen to everyone but its been happening too much for Ricardo yes he plays well in major tournments but not the European Championship. He only played well in the world cup because we had the best defence in the world at that time and when Portugal left a whole in the back which rarely happened, take the game against Germany for example Ricardo didn't stop anything for us when the defence made mistakes and that cost us our 3rd place and so far now that Portugal has been having trouble in the back and a Keeper that we can't trust Portugal has been going down hill we almost failed to qualify. With the squad we have we should be ranked 1st in the world, we should of beaten Italy no problem but the mistakes from Ricardo cost us that win. Ricardo sucks he makes so much mistakes and everyone no's that.
I l
24/02/2008 21:42
All the suggestions are excellent..
Matt I would personally play Veloso in front of Meira that way Veloso can attack.
I believe when Portugal were at their greatest was when Nuno Valente was across from Miguel at the back.. Valente was a no nonsense meat and potato guy who supported attack but mostly took care of the defence for the others rushing up..
I feel without that extra concentrated defender the team leaves huge gaps.. since Valente isn't in the cards.. Meira or even Caneira would do well in a central holding position.. especially with Bos and Miguel taking turns launching upfield..
As for Patricio he has had a good year.. I too love young talent.. but.. he is error prone and I feel he needs a little more first team seasoning before we put him in front of the world's best.. take todays Sporting game shot right at him went right through his hands.. and then he was seen crying.. I think he is still to young to heap that sort of responsibility on him yet.. with a solid Defence.. even Ricar
24/02/2008 16:20
good idea
they should experiment ronaldo and almeida together has strikers. i think it will come out alright. they got querasema and simao to play on the sides. they have deco, moutinho, veloso to play center mid
why not try a new thing.
viva portugal
23/02/2008 02:37
o and i forgot my formation for the next friendly and possibly europe.....
Almeida Ronaldo
Moutinho
Nani Quaresma
Veloso
Boswinga,Pepe,Carvalho,miguel
Patricio
then subs could include:
Nuno Gomes
Helder Postiga
Simao Sabrosa
Deco
Petit
Maniche
Manuel Fernandes( could give him one more chance)
Meira
Bruno Alves
Caneira
Paulo Ferreira
Ricardo
23/02/2008 02:31
I like the last comment but your question was can we just use all the forwards as strikers well we can with Hugo Almeida and C.Ronaldo as our only strikers but Ricardo Quaresma i dont think he would be the man for the job hes more of wing player.
but we could probably pair C.Ronaldo and Hugo Almeida up front???
Ricardo Quaresma on the right wing and Nani on the left wing or even Simao then have Moutinho as the attacking midfielder because i dont think Deco can do the job anymore plus Moutinho scored a really good goal for sporting not to long ago and hes been playing well.
Miguel Veloso as the defensive mid role thats probably our best choice. we can put Miera but i think hes not that good on the attack if needed hes good on the defensive part but the attack i dont no if its possible.
Is there another keeper who can stop the ball from entering the net i think there is in my opinon but thats just me i would have Rui Patricio as the keeper hes been playing well for sporting am i right???? w
22/02/2008 02:14
Orlandomac, Matt...excellent input.
truly enjoy ur commentaries.
my 1st question: do we really need a striker or can we not all use the forwards as strikers?
2: do we have any other GKs, is that an area being worked on?
3: what are ur thoughts on the lineup below? what are ur lineups and why?
gk - ???
ld - boswinga
lcd - pepe
rcd - carvalho
rd - miguel
lw - moutinho
rw - meira
cam - simao (1st half only - replace with maniche)
rf - ronaldo
lf - quaresma (1st half only - replace with postiga)
cf - almeida
4: future coach/manager?
18/02/2008 20:54
berto
nice comments :)
viva portugal
17/02/2008 00:25
Yes the past comments are true we need C.Ronaldo but im just saying C.Ronaldo hasn't done his part for Portugal against big teams.
Portugal's perfermance all last year was horrible we haven't had a good game since the 4-0 win against Belguim when Ronaldo and Quaresma,Nuno Gomes and Moutinho were all playing there best.
Hugo Almeida is are only hope for the leading role up front we cant trust Nuno Gomes no more he cant find the back of the net.Makukula is horrible and he shouldn't be in the squad sure he scored against Azerbaijan but he hasnt done anything since.
When Pepe reaches full health we will have no problem in defence with carvalho. i hope Jorge Andrade is gonna still be able to return and still play well like the game against brazil were he was very useful.
Miguel is a very good player but he cant play on the left side thats not him niether boswinga unless we take out boswinga and put miguel in instead then theres the solution and have caniera in the left back role with paulo ferreir
16/02/2008 10:20
Carlos I agree with you on most but lets face the facts the weakest point on the team is the GK, Quim is no better and I drove all the way to Montreal blowing a tansmission to watch Rui give up two bad goals against a subpar Gambia albeit I did get in 3 of the Portuguese Dailys in the process lol
So that is the weakest point of the squad admittedly for most.
As for Meira yeah he is slow but we don't want him to be moving from that holding defensive role, everyone else wants to be a superstar and moves far upfield. When you have Bos and Mig on the wings you have to make sure someone is back to cover the holes that is why Petit isn't a good candidate for the job since he is so far up field that he leaves gaps, Caneira could also play this holding role and has done so before but on the wings either are way too slow.
I unfortunately don't believe these hotshots we have will mature until it is into their late days.
Just like Figo he truly was at his best later on when he started to use the field wise
16/02/2008 04:33
Orlandomac, I agree. There's no way you can ignore a player like Ronny. By far the best player Portugal has. As a matter of fact, therein lies a big piece of the puzzle...Scolari has not been able to use RC properly. Portugal has to actually build the team around him, as many professional sports teams build their teams around their franchise players.
Also agree with several comments made that traditionally, Portuguese players "play selfishly". But this has also been the area where Scolari has had the most positive impact. There is still a considerable amount of selfish play, but a lot less than in the past. As for Quar, he certainly does have a lot of talent, but there is clearly little chemistry between him and Ronny. I hope this can develop over time. Nani still has to develop and he is at the best place in the world (ManU) to do so. I think Simao is a great "Portugal" player and I can't understand why Scolari kept him out of the line-up against Italy. Deco on the other hand, I truly believe has
15/02/2008 19:21
Matt my friend you can't be serious you are saying bench arguabley the best player in the world hey I can get on Ronaldo as I can with most of this squad for playing selfishly but he is the best player on the squad by a long shot unfortunately like any Portuguese Player he won't smarten up until he is old for me Figo's best games were his latter ones when he spread the ball out more and used a multi-faceted attack Quaresma is highly talented but for Portugal he has had the worst performances out of the 4 wingers Ronaldo, Nani, Simao, then Quar sure the Italy game was one of his best matches but every last shot, cross, pass was atrocious all but the one goal if not for him we could've had at least 4 Goals
As for the talk of Miguel & Veloso smartening up how come Deco got off he just was convicted of DUI & lost his lisence that was rewarded with the starting lineup Scolari adding to the mental aspect of the Team after he punched a player is quite funny but even I his worst critic knows that his tourname
14/02/2008 01:33
portugal is the best team in the world we had a good game against italy even though italy found the net 3 times i think ricardo is done i dont think hes really that good infact i dont think he was ever really good you cant trust him being our keeper i think we should consider trying rui patricio or quim out there both better keepers. our midfield is good but ronaldo i dont think hes that good anymore either he hasnt done anything for portugal against brazil and italy wiat till 2008 can we really trust him. ronaldo is to young to wear the cap arm band they should really give it to petit or deco there both very talented and very experienced players for the national side. ricardo quaresma is much better then ronaldo especally against big national teams like brazil and italy he had good games against both i rather see quaresma take ronaldos spot on the right and simao on the left or even nani he also had a good game against italy and i think hes ready to play i know i can trust simao he never lets us done. pepe
14/02/2008 01:29
the comment about enjoying watching our team is fine but the reality is who wants to watch a fun team if they can't bring home the trophy. all of the past champions have one thing in common they go out and work hard. portuguese players rely on their exceptional individual skill to win but they don't play unified.on paper we are just as gifted as any team but there lacks a serious mental edge that it takes to be a champion. i would like to see portugal go onto the pitch and play as if there is no tomorrow but unfortunately they usually take a lazy approach which can work out against lesser teams but not against the better ones.
13/02/2008 11:26
fernando is correct that we need ball winner within the midfield... for the shape as well as for our winger which sometimes loses the ball easily... dnt kno but what about a 3-3-2-1... with pepe,alves, carvalho at the back... bos, and mig on the side.. and deco with ron and qures up frnt with maku.. what do u think... i kno that goin 2 be a major problem nt playin all our players.. we do have the best mid in the world all our midfield player could walk into any other european side... but i dnt kno scolari will have problems on trying to get the est formation and best out of all the players!! he need to cum up with something that he can use that is effective and uses all the players ability... hhow about play ronaldo up front with maku... maku can jump for the ball head it down to ronaldo and he can keep the ball or continue... can be the other way round maku holding up the ball... just dnt kno scolari got a big problem!.... tell me what u think about what i wrote...
forca portugal...
13/02/2008 06:23
Jorge and Jacob, good out of the box thinking to solve the national team problems but I agree with Fernando.
In fact,I agree with Fernando's line up except I would have Quaresma over Nani. I've been very critical of Quaresma but I think at this point he is more advanced than Nani. Nani is a good player off the bench.
As far as comments on the Portuguese mental aspect of the game. I think Scolari has helped with the mental approach and we need to objectively look at our team. It is a team with potential but weak in a couple areas that can challenge for a championship. There are many quality sides out there and we must be objective in our approach and not over estimate what Portugal can do. Portugual has good attacking players and strong defensive players but without a first class striker we can't be expected to win. Portugal has been looking for a striker since Euro 96. It is widely accepted and known by the FPF that Portugal needs to develop a striker. Will it ever get done, I don't know b
13/02/2008 04:56
Jorge and Jacob,
Without a doubt, your rosters' would result in alot of goals. The problem with it is that Portugal would concede more goals than they score. Your midfield is
extremely talented, however, it lacks defensive responsibility. Ronaldo, Deco, Simao, Quaresma and even Maniche prefer to "cheat" and take advantage of offensive opportunities. This would lead to massive gaps in the middle of the park that quality teams could easily exploit. Portugal needs a midfield with players that compliment each other. Our great attacking players need ball winners and defensive cover when they lose possession of the ball. It is too much to expect the back line to prevent all counter-attacks. This is why players like Essien, Vierra, Gatusso are so important to their respective squads. Portugal must have one or even two defensive midfielders on the park. Therefore, players like Petit, Veloso and perhaps Mierra provide the "shape" in midfield that is necessary to get results against teams that are t
12/02/2008 19:17
gk- rui
ld- castro
lcd- meira
rcd- carvalho
rd- miguel
lw- maniche
rw- simao
cam- deco
rf- ronaldo
lf- quaresma
cf- postiga
11/02/2008 21:59
Look at this formation, I believe that with a little modification it would be a godsend for our situation.
I think if we moved the defensive midfielder to a striker position ahead of the two center fowards and to the center, and have the "side midfields" play as wingers, we could have the following line up
gk- ricardo or quim
ld- boswinga
lcd- meira
rcd- carvalho
rd- andrade
lw- nani
rw- simao
cam- deco
rf- ronaldo
lf- quaresma
cf- almeida
this formation utilizes all the big guns of our team and takes advantage of our numerous wingers in positions they would excel in.
what do you guys think (please give me feedback)
11/02/2008 21:12
After seeing the latest result against italy i have to say it's the same old stuff with our national team. The problem Portugal has and always has had is a lack of agressiveness. They play the game as if they their going for a stroll. It's not that we don't have talented players it's that the second our players step onto the pitch they think they're entitled to a win without putting out a serious effort. Italians or say Argentinians don't win because of pure talent alone, they bust their ass for 90 minutes. Our players take their time in wanting to set up the beautiful goal and we always settle for less. Years ago I was in Italy on vacation and all the european countries were playing friendlies.Italy beat Spain 2-0. Afterwards they interviewed the Italian coach and he said " we won the game but we played like crap". Portugal had also played that same day and had lost by the same score 2-0. The portuguese coach responded by saying "we lost but I'm satisfied by our play". What kind of crap is that
11/02/2008 03:44
Scolari has lots of work to do. Im suprised he took the job to train Portugal after Brazil. Both Team and style have nothing in common. I think the problem of Portugal his the Leadership, Team Spirit, discipline and most of all Structure. They dont play smart and they are predictable. They seem to pass too much at wrong time and wrong place. They seem to be also affraid with the ball and make mistake. They dont seem to have a chemistry amongst them and each one seem to compete against each other not the opponent. It's a disease within the Team. My opinion.
10/02/2008 23:06
hopefully the team will learn from the loss,however we do need some sharp strikers.sporting lisbon seem to produce good wingers and midfielders in the past and present years, how about putting in an order for some strikers. for the current strikers like nuno gomes,postega kept trying.
10/02/2008 02:49
Lots of good comments and passion for the national team. A few follow up comments:
1) I agree with the comment made earlier that Portugal has not played a good game since the World Cup game against France in 2006. There seems to be something missing from the team. A lot of this has been the injuries, lack of consistent midfield play, and no strikers. It appears to me we lack a player like Figo or R Costa who set up the play with quick passes and quality crosses. This seems to be lacking. CR has involved more into a scorer and at ManU he plays with quality strikers but I still think he can develop into a player maker. Quaresma has the potential but he needs to improve his crosses. Deco is out of form and we need him. Not sure Moutinho is the answer from what I have seen so we must continue to go with Deco, CR, and Quaresma and hope they improve in playing together.
2) None of our strikers would make it on any top 20 national team. The worse set of strikers for a top 20 team in the world. I agree
09/02/2008 23:52
In reference to Dino's Comments:
You might be right about Scolari's experimenting, but if so, why did he leave Ricardo in? Why doesn't he experiment with his goalie? I know that I'm constantly coming back to this issue about Ricardo, but I just can't believe that he's still the No. 1 gatekeeper. This is a national disgrace. But Scolari has never shown much logic in this area, i.e. Baia when he was still at the top of his game was dropped in favor of Ricardo. I don't get it. Ricardo must have some pictures or something.
08/02/2008 21:29
In terms of the match, we were playing desperate world champions, who have been under extreme pressure to get results after a shaky qualification campaign. The victory was more important to them than anything else.
Quaresma shone, Ronaldo was not in the game at all by his own will (nothing to do with the Italians). With all the injuries, lack of match fitness and what seemed like a general lack of motivation, we produced an average display during the 1st half considering the status & motivation of the opposition.
Forget the second half, Scolari made 3 major changes to the team in one shot (two in defense if l remember correctly) within the first few minutes of the second half, when everyone knows this is one of the most unsettled periods of a game. This move makes it clear that he was not in it for winning but for experimenting. The result of course meant that our team was further destabilized by the new changes, which probably caused the defensive confusion that lead to Italy’s second goal.
Need to
08/02/2008 21:03
Firstly we all know that friendlies are designed to allow opportunity for experimentation. I think that by Scolari's actions, it is clear to see that he was using this match for this purpose and not necessarily to produce a victory (although it would have been nice). We haven't had many opportunities for experimenting during the qualification campaign, as you all know it was tight all the way to the last game.
I think that the concern for me is that we are now quite close to the tournament and it seems that Scolari is still looking rather uncomfortable with his arrangements. You would think by now, that he would have a clear strategy on how to win games and deal with different types of opponents. Not sure that he has. I think that we shall need to develop better strategy for dealing with teams that are defensive by nature (such as Italy) or teams that close-up shop once they take the lead (Czech Rep. Euro'96, S.Korea WC'02, Greece Euro'04). Any ideas? If so, write them on a postcard and send them ove
08/02/2008 03:24
Lets be honest here, truth is that Ricardo is at best a second-string goalie. Even the rookie Particio is a better option. And why hasn't Quim been given his chance. especially in a friendly.
There is no way a top notch goalie would have let that first goal in. It changed the whole character of the game. The third goal was very suspect as well. My point is that you can not be a contender and have a Ricardo-type goalie in the nets.
In addition, Scolari's management of the midfield...terrible!!!. He has to take a big chunk of the blame.
Now I know a lot of you are saying that we shouldn't read much into this defeat...that's its just a friendly...that Italy (afterall) are the World Champions, but the truth is that if you look back since the defeat to France in the 2006 World Cup, Portugal has performed very poorly and way below their capacity.
His terrible judgment in his use of players has been shocking. I cite 3 examples from the Italy game: 1. Ricardo (see my comments above); 2. Meira (plays
07/02/2008 20:54
I am with Joe we all know Ricardo is a shot stopper and lousy at crosses.
Ricardo has deserved better with some of his results for Portugal.
The first goal went through 4 Portugal defenders including Ricardo.
The second was a deflection on a slick surface and the last he had no chance the D left him out to dry.
Now lets discuss the Strikers of Hugo & Mak how many starts have they had? few. Pauleta & Gomes have taken the lion share over the years. I will admit since Figo & Conceicao the service to the CF has been extremely weak and any time they are given the ball the D is back to cover. So for all you gentleman that say they need the perfect ball I petition you to look at the service I felt Mak made a few things but was off target. How many starts has he had? Almeida who has some skills but a firey temper as well came close to getting on the end of some balls none of which were gimmes.
I am not so bleak on the future of our CF's. I feel with good service which with Quar, CR, Nani, SS is still
07/02/2008 20:38
I dont know what Scolari is thinking having ronaldo as captain, he is our best player but the fact that he can lose his cool in the heat of the moment makes him a poor contender for captain. I believe Deco would make a good captain, he is one of our most experienced players and teamates on club and country alike have spoke of the respect that they have for him.
I am also greatly disaponted in our striker position, although I believe Almeida is a better player then Makukula, and both are better then Nuno Gomes, we need to shape up in the front if we hope to win.
anyways, we shouldn't let the friendly yesterday bring us down, Italy are the world champs and we still managed to hold our own against them even though our team is going through a kind of crises while we undergo a complete transformation
07/02/2008 15:08
Carlos you make some good points. The lack of quality in our centre forwards is embarassing. Like I said, Mak/Almeida/Gomes would not have a place on the starting 11 (they'd be lucky to get a call up) on any other major European Nat'l team.
But we need to ease on Ricardo a bit. I don't think he's lost any major game for us. In fact he's the reason why we've won quite a few. Should he have performed better yesterday? Sure. Does he have his poor moments? Yes. But to be fair, he's played a major role in any success we have had in the past, and again, he has not cost us any major titles. Our lack of scoring has.
Maybe Quim is a better goalie today, but Ricardo has earned the right to stay in net. I have no issue with Scolari keeping him.
07/02/2008 12:47
I've said it before and I'll say it again, Portugal will not win anything until they solve the goalie issue. The game against Italy was yet another example. Ricardo is simply not a world class goalie. I can't understand why Scolari insists on using him, when he has better goalies sitting on the bench. Ricardo's performance was Mickey Mouse.
The other issue Portugal has to resolve, is the striker position. Both Mac and Almeida are not doing it. But that said, the midfield hasn't been feeding them the ball. And what's up with Scolari and the midfield. He totally unbalanced the team with his modifications. In the second half, Portugal basically had no midfield, thus the result. I am very disappointed with the team.
Last but not least, Ronaldo. I'm sorry, but if the boy wants to be the best in the world, he has to perform in these international fixtures, on the world stage. Thus far, he has been unable to do so. Let's stop making excuses and putting together a team that can make us proud. Right
07/02/2008 10:44
I said that before. Ronaldo MUST play as a CF because there is no another solution. yesterday he was crap and that's true but if he keep his form up he'll play better than nuno, mak or hugo on tournament.
quaresma was the best portuguese player in attack but many times he didn't have any support. and he was crap in 45 min when he destroyed fantastic opportunity. however he showed that he should be in starting eleven next to ronaldo and who? simao? he's tottaly crap. nani? he's still to weak. scolari has to find solution
07/02/2008 09:47
I wouldnt read to much into the result...carvalho..not fit..c ronaldo..tired..but i hope scolari has learnt that certain players are on friggin notice.
1. veloso should play
2.drop alves-pepe is having awesome season with madrid & should start
3. deco on notice
4.quaresma should start..& subbed with nani
5.Makukula should go to euro..& almeida come off bench..nuno is past it..
6.petit doesnt do enough...its time for someone else. he's had his turn.
7.Ricardo is on notice..needs to be benched a few times to smarten his act up..
Forca PORTUGAL..
07/02/2008 02:54
I don't even know what to say. My biggest issue remains the same game after game after game, we CAN'T SCORE consistently. We never have. Looks like we never will.
Gomes can't do it, Mak can't do it, Almeida can't do it. These are all single dimensional players who need the ball placement to be perfect. Heck I CAN SCORE TOO IF THE BALL PLACEMENT IS PERFECT. Anyone can.
Our lack of quality at the striker level is shocking (how great does Pauleta look right now?).
Put Ronaldo in the middle, Simao and Quaresma on the sides.
Mak, Almeida, Gomes are just taking up space and would not start on any other European national team.
07/02/2008 02:48
Quaresma man of the match? Not after he wasted that pass to Ronaldo when they were 2 on 1 rite before Italy scored. If he had made a simple, easy pass, Ronaldo would have scored and Portugal would have gone to win the game. Portugal can win the tournament, without a doubt. Almeida and Makukula are not ripe yet, maybe Nuno Gomes should be given one more chance to shine, like in 2000. Or Ronaldo could play as the striker with Nani on the wing...he can score with either foot, his head, from anywhere...think about it Scolari
07/02/2008 02:09
I agree "who cares" Italy played well of course they did a two goal lead is the only time they ever let their fielders play and they play well it is a shame.
Everyone is picking on the strikers but in all fairness none of these guys has had much time out there they should be afforded some time to gel personally I think Hugo & Mak will do well and Gomes always scores timely goals off the bench.
It wasn't the strikers fault today their service was poor for the most part.
It has to be Portugal's weakest link they are exceptional dribblers but couldn't put in a useful ball to a forward if their life depended on it.
Everyone has their own opinions and are entitled to them "who cares".. You don't come off too knowledgeable yourself.. ItalY "class" you must be joking they have never won an important match ever that wasn't tainted somehow with some dive or simulation. Their posterboy of class is Materazzi and his negative tactics to cover up his weak game.
Today they dominated Portugal once
07/02/2008 01:17
sorry to say this but you guys aren't the most soccer knowlegbale people lol no offense. I am Portuguese for the record. Italy showed their CLASS today and didn't WASTE their oppurtunities like Portugal did. Man of the match for us was Quaresma. More than half the time this guy won't show up but against the defensive teams like Italy and Greece we need this guy. Ronaldo is horrible when he wears the captain's armband I don't know why scolari doesn't see that. Our best striker option right now is Makukula.
07/02/2008 01:01
So in my opinion about the match first of all:
1. C.Ronaldo done NOTHING!!! Quaresma where MUCH MUCH MUCH Better!! both sides
2. The Defenders Especially Carvalho is no match for Miguel..Miguel is better and Ferreira? I Prefer to see Caneira and in the middle obvoiusly Alves and Meira/Pepe.
3. Nani wasnt isnt yet good enough for playing in the National Team at least Reserve is a solution.
4. Strikers!! Hugo Almeida is the Solution...Makakula isnt good to start from the beginning.
and
5. the Midfield. Petit and Maniche I dont think they are good. prefer some new talent like Moutinho, Meireles, Veloso and obvoisly Simao
6. Captian? i think C.Ronaldo better think of how he plays then how to motivate the team coz he is losing alot of concentration about his style of play. Prefer Bruno Alves or Deco as Captain
* Portugal where playng much batter in the 1st Half but 4-2-4 i think it not good prefer the 1st Formation.
but still!!
PORTUGALOOOOOOO!!!! EE MEGLIOR!!
QUARESMA RULES!!!
07/02/2008 00:04
sry bout my post forgot my name.
07/02/2008 00:03
I was so pissed off. Scolari has alot of thinking to do after this one. Pathetic match on Portugal's side. Ricardo had a horrible game!! First goal should of never happened. I know this is a freindly and for Portugal they have alot of improvement before Euro 08. My changes would be....
1. Nani needs to be a reserve. He was horrible today. So what if he had a great game against Belgium and Finland. Against Italy he didn't do anything.
2. We need a striker. Makukula isnt the answer, neither Nuno Gomes, but if Hugo Almeida can improve his dribbling skills, touch, and passing he will be fit for the job. Portugal play at a fast pace, Hugo Almeida needs to work on his touch and passing without a doubt. Now we should try out in my opinion, Ricardo Vaz Te or Yannick Djalo- Just to give them a try.
3. We need Carvalho and Meira in the middle. I love Bruno Alves and should be used as a sub or rotating w/ Meira. Bruno isn't good enough for the postion. Also Maniche is washed up! Put Petit, Deco and Moutinho
06/02/2008 22:54
Tony maybe where you live a loss to Italy is palatable in my neck of the woods it is the worst thing that could ever happen and I mean ever. I would rather be shot killed peed on and dragged through the streets.
if you live in any area near a large group of Italians you would rather feed your own mom to the wolves then to lose. I mean NOTHING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am sure all the guys from my area will attest to this.
This game was a wake up call a strong slap to the face for a bunch of prima dona's step it up or you will be embarassed repeatedly.
Bos and Mig on each wing they aren't direct replacements not in this side even tho they do play the same side.
The forwards on this team couldn't hit the side of the barn if they were leaning on it only CR has a good strike rate. Although Mak and even Hugo only had moments it is a huge improvement since Pauleta now if the team could only get them some good balls. The crosses we as good as the ones I see in local parks from 10 yr olds.
Fereira is a be
06/02/2008 22:28
This loss to Italy is not the end of the world there was some bright moments and the 3 goals were due to poor clearing especially on 2 goals. It is the kind of breakdowns you can not have against a quality opponent.
The areas of concerns are the same:
1) Lack of quality striker became very apparent. We have not strikers who can play against quality opponents. Lets be realistic about the situation.
2) Boswinga looked a bit shaky at times at RB but I think he will be okay. Not sure given Miguel's fitness that Miguel is a viable option. I'm hoping that Miguel will be fit to play LB because all the other possible options are not any good.
3) Central defense a bit shaky but Carvalho will get back in form and Pepe might be a better option than Alves but we are solid here and have some options.
4) The attacking part of the game was pretty good except we could have used some better final balls. In Quaresma, Nani, CR, even a lackluster Deco there is quality.
5) GK, you got what you will get from Rica
06/02/2008 22:01
Add a goal but just like i called it.. Italians put 2 in then they actually start to play a good game.. such a talented team that relies on negative tactics to win games.. The Devil's Team.. in blue..
I am disgusted by the play of the Team... the were as usual some bright moments of play.. but in the final third they lack the finishing of a top team.. like the announcers on GOLTV said.. weak mental game and they caved in after dominating the first half allowing that late goal..
Fortunately this team is still really young.. and Stupidlari's best performances are always in the heat of the big battle.. so there still is a chance.. but if they come in lack lustre against Turkey they will get smashed in that first game of the Euro.. fortunately Turkey plays an offensive game which bodes well for this team..
Their main weakness is against sides that play a tight defensive game..
There were some bright momentsd scattered.. throughout but at least this team gets it in their heads that they are going to
06/02/2008 20:49
Quaresma has played better.. in possession... but his last ball is complete retard..
How hard is it to make a pass.. and if he tries to outside foot it one more time at a defender I am going to scream.. we could've had a few goals already if he knew how to pass a ball.. and of course like any great Italian team.. the italians are seaching for a foul or one last minute play to score.. and in injury time they did..
Got to love them Italians sit around do nothing all game save you energy for the last five minutes and then score.. typical..
I HATE THAT TEAM.. I WOULD RATHER BEAT THEM IN A FRIENDLY AND NOT MAKE THE WORLD CUP!!! THE ONLY GOOD TOURNAMENT IS ONE THAT HAS THAT CHEATING BLUE SQUAD OUT EARLY..!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I hope we can do better in the second half but this is totally their game they love to sit on a one goal lead and BORE everyone to sleep...
It fear it won't look good in the second half.. they will find the openings and kill the game..
I hope not but I see another goal.. on the c
06/02/2008 20:22
Scolari has to be slightly retarded he keeps playing players in after repeat bad performances for the national team.
I can live with Quar & Deco who have been playing average for Portugal but Caneira is a turtle on the wing first play the Italian blows his doors off.
He couldn't compete with Cape Verde let alone the World Champs.
Yes lets make an example of Miguel for his behaviour but Deco's Drunk driving is ok.
Then Petit who is a hard tackler but who is out of position all the time and for me the def mid should almost never leave his half especially on this team. with our wings.
There was a play Italian on Caneira's side all open no mid D on him they fancy themselves offensively they are not!
I would have preferred to see Meira as the def mid and Bos and Mig on the wings.
Maniche I have no issues with.. he plays his role well.. but Veloso is a good replacement..
I would play Ron- Quar- Nani probably Ronaldo more central.. but to play those guys.. you have to make sure you have a
04/02/2008 08:42
Meira is having a personal nightmare of a season. There is no way he^s gonna start at Euro 08 if he doesn^t get his game together.
03/02/2008 14:45
is this game going to be aired on RTP?
01/02/2008 02:10
Fernando, Canada
31/01/2008 23:16
Ryan,
To clarify:
Defenders:
Rb Boswinga
Cb Carvalho and Pepe (Alves was not on my original roster)
Lb Ferreira. I'm not happy about this either. He is weak defensively and he normally plays on the right side. I am not crazy about Caneira. He is inconsistent at the international level. If Miguel was fit I would love to "try" him on the left even though he also plays on the right. The speed of Boswinga and Miguel out wide could be deadly. Once again, this position is one of Portugals main weaknesses.
Forca Portugal :
I agree.......I think that Bosingwa and Miguel have great speed on sides of the denfense. Thats why I somewhat like Fabio Conteraro the youngster from Benfica. I still dont hink Pepe will play. Probably Meira.
31/01/2008 23:16
Ryan,
To clarify:
Defenders:
Rb Boswinga
Cb Carvalho and Pepe (Alves was not on my original roster)
Lb Ferreira. I'm not happy about this either. He is weak defensively and he normally plays on the right side. I am not crazy about Caneira. He is inconsistent at the international level. If Miguel was fit I would love to "try" him on the left even though he also plays on the right. The speed of Boswinga and Miguel out wide could be deadly. Once again, this position is one of Portugals main weaknesses.
Forca Portugal
31/01/2008 22:00
PSOUSANJ FROM NJ, USA
i agree with your opinions about putting players where they should be. to tell u something players could adapt to any postions if they are really good. the problem with portugal national team is the strikers. they are grab. i give credit to makakula he is big and tall, but still slow. portugal needs a player like liedson from sporting. then they wont have any problems scoring goals.
yeah, ronadlo and queresma are good on the sides because its roomy. but they are not better passers than deco and simao. thats why i would like to see them on the sides. and have ronaldo and makakula in the middle ready for the headers. and ronaldo and makadula have stronger legs to shoot to the goal from the mid section.
when queresma and ronaldo have ball on the sides, they take all day back and forth and takes forever to pass. simao and deco would pass quickly to center section to any player not fooling around with ball. this about winning not a show.
viva portugal
31/01/2008 21:37
and may i ask you one thing fernando?
Why would you have Pepe Alves Carvlaho and Feireira out there!
1. Pepe is not a RB
2. Paulo Feireira is horrible. Caneira is better than him.
3. Alves with not much expeirence and is banged up will not play. There going to put there starters in there for Euro.
GK:Ricardo
DEF:Bosingwa,Carvlaho,Meira,Caneira
MID:Petit,Deco,Maniche
WINGERS: Ronaldo, Quaresma
FWDS: Nuno Gomes (C)
31/01/2008 21:35
Goalkeepers: Ricardo (Betis), Quim (Benfica) Rui Patricio (Sporting)
Defenders: Bosingwa (FC Porto), Bruno Alves (FC Porto), Caneira (Valencia), Paulo Ferreira (Chelsea), Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea), Fernando Meira (Stuttgart), Jorge Ribeiro (Boavista)
Midfielders: Petit (Benfica), Raul Meireles (FC Porto), Maniche (Inter Milan), Deco (Barcelona)
Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United), Nani (Manchester United), Ricardo Quaresma (FC Porto), Nuno Gomes (Benfica), Makukula (Maritimo)
thats the squad there taking to play Italy.
Fernando, Canada:
Get Berbatov to change nationality.
lmao! No way would Portugal do that. Your out of your mind! Why would they do that he doesn't even speak portuguese. Wow! Thats why we get Brazilians like Pepe and Deco, They speak Portuguese. Now sadly when Mourinho joins Portugal after Euro, Pepe and Deco will be gone. Mourinho doesn't believe in switching nationalities.
Fernando, Canada:
Striker: A platoon of Almeida and Mak.. 60 minutes for Almeida
31/01/2008 19:47
Ronaldo is the best player in the world right now. He can definetly play up front. He is having huge success at United playing as a very forward midfielder-almost as a striker Here is my problem with that though: At United, Ronaldo is supprted by dynamic strikers like Tevez and Rooney. Even if you are not a fan of English football, you have to admire the understanding that these players have. Portugal's strikers are not as versatile. Also, Portugal under Scalari play essentially a
4-5-1. If Ronaldo is up front by himself he will not get the ball at his feet as much as when he is causing havoc in the middle of the park. A possible option could be to play Almeida or Mak.. up front with Ronaldo. Ronaldo could then play off these big strikers-clean up the mess, take on defenders and score goals. This, of course, would mean changing the formation to a 4-4-2 and that would put more pressure on the players in the middle of the park (ie Deco, Petit,
Maniche, Nani, Quaresma, Simao etc.) So in the end,
31/01/2008 10:40
like i said before; ronaldo could play as a center attacker. in match against portsmouth he was there and scored two goals
31/01/2008 03:01
I have watched every Portugal game for the past 6 years and have attended a handful live. We have a reliable goalkeeper, a world class central defense, and a respectable midfield that works hard and keeps possession.
I think our only major concern is GOALS. Euro 2004, we get shut out in the final. World Cup 2006, we get shut out in the semi-final. We struggled with goals in the euro qualifiers (games against Belgium aside). So many games where we converted so few opportunities agains FAR LESSER teams.
We have perhaps the most prolific goal scorer in the world on our team (Ronaldo). So what's the problem? In my view, Ronaldo is hampered by playing with the likes of Gomes (never seen a man miss so many chances and kill so many plays), Quaresma (yes, Quaresma who has done almost nothing on the national level beyond a rare play here or there), and Almeida (who is a single dimensional player that needs the ball perfectly fed to him).
Ronaldo scores free and easy at Man U because he is sur
31/01/2008 02:56
My last post was cut off. Here is the rest of my roster for the Italy
match
Keeper: Ricardo
Defenders: Carvalho, Pepe, Boswinga, and Ferreira. Even though he plays on the right, I would prefer Miguel at left back. However, he is not fit and, from some accounts, needs to improve his attitude.
Midfield: Ronaldo, Nani, Deco, Petit and Meira. I realize that Meira normally plays center-back, but this line-up provides a nice combination of offensive flair and defensive responsibility.
Striker: A platoon of Almeida and Mak.. 60 minutes for Almeida and 30 minutes for Mak.. These two big strikers will hopefully wear down the excellent Italian defense.
There- you can now bet the house on Portugal
30/01/2008 21:13
I have read and enjoyed many of the posts. Here are my two bits. Portugal has the potential to win Euro if they are on fire. However, as some of you have aleady indicated, Portugal has three areas of concern: Keeper, left back and striker. We have the best wingers in the world and arguably the best group of central defenders in Europe ( Carvalho, Pepe, Alves, Andrade and Meira). I thought that Meira had a great game in midfield cleaning up the middle of the pitch in the Finland qualifyer. We do not have a world class striker and ,once again, this could prove costly. The Trio of Gomes, Almeida and Mak.. will have to raise their game if Portugal hopes to hoist the trophy. Hopefully the nation of Portugal and the international Portuguese community will support the national team better than during qualifying. It was disappointing to read the negative press and hear the public criticism during recent matches. Here is my line-up for Italy.
Keeper: Ricardo ( Is there really a better option?)
Defen
30/01/2008 17:24
I dont think theres much to worry, we really have strong defenders, solid middlemen, and spectacular wingers. the only area we have difficulty is witht he striker position. Since the days of Pauleta, we haven't had a strong striker to compliment the rest of the team. Makakula is a great fit to come off the bench if Almenda or Gomes get tired. quaresma has to stop messing around with the ball and attack or pass it off to the middle men like Deco, etc. Overall, we have a shot on winning the Euro 08. We just need teamwork and fire.
my startin lineup for the Italy friendly match on 6 Feb.
GK - Quim {yea I know Im gonna hear it from all you Ricardo lovers, but he has been awful recently}
D - B. Alves, Bonsingwa, Carvalho, F. Meira
Middle - Maniche, Deco, Raul Meiredes
W - Nani and C. Ronaldo {Quaresma has got to get his out of the clouds, do u see the sissy fit he threw when he was subbed vs Sporting last sunday??}
Striker- Hugo Almeida
thanks everyone, Forca Portugal!!
30/01/2008 02:09
jacob, how many wingers do you on the side nani, simao, quaresma and ronaldo.. nice joke, i had a laugh reading that..
i hope alemdia and makukula can really bring something to the team, there both big boys, if they can hold up the ball and distribute to other attacking players that will be fantastic
30/01/2008 00:09
I think the portuguese squad/formation should look something like this:
Ricardo (GK)
Andrade RB Carvallo CB pepe(rb
Veloso MF
simao rw nani lw
Deco CM
Ronaldo rs Quaresma ls
Hugo lameida st
I like this line up as it takes advantage of most of our numerous midfield options, which I think is the biggest factor our formation needs to provide.
What do you guys think?
29/01/2008 23:19
modern and what's importnat great players MUST be able to play not only as their normal position. that's why essien is one of the best players on all over the world. that's why ronaldo scored 25 goals in 27 matches and that's why ronaldinho in his best form could play in each position in attack. so please; stop talking unnormal things about FOOTBALL [not soccer; nobody in europe use that word]
29/01/2008 21:06
The problem with Portugal is they need a quality striker. Nuno Gomes wont get the job done! I like Makukula or Almeida, and even Vaz Te should get a chance. I like Makukula the best. Hes big, strong, good in the air and has great ball control for his size. Now, Ronaldo isnt a CF or Center Attacking midfielder. Hes a winger! He has the moves,speed, agility, etc. as a winger u stick him in the middle and Deco doesnt get a chance to send through balls to the strikers and wingers because Ronaldo is a demanding player. Quaresma is a great fit. If he doesnt come up big against big teams what happen in that Chelsea game last year. Both of them! He had 2 great games. Yes, he has alot of skill and potenial and uses against slacky portuguese teams. He's first couple games in the CL against Marselle, Liverpool, and Bestiaks were great performances. The second legs were shaky. Liverpool shut him down! he constatly had 2 defenders on him. Against Finland he had chances and couldnt finish but you saw the skill from him.
29/01/2008 18:51
the guy below me must not watch soccer or play to many video games...you cant just put players wherever you whant...you have to put players where they can use their skills to their full potential ie ronaldo n quaresma on the wing because they need room to dribble n run because thats what they do well or with deco in the middle where he can see the whole field so he can distribute veloso so he can control the game etc...regarding Nani the only possibilty is as a second striker(like a t.henry who played left wide for juventus)hes not good enough in the air or with his back to the goal to play as a traditional CF....and moutinho only plays if deco isnt in the game.....Video Games arent real life
29/01/2008 14:24
JOHNATHAN FROM CLEARWATER, FL
i kind of like your idea putting nani has a striker. i think would be lot better than having all them strikers makakula, almeida, gomes. nani can dribble past the defenders and try to score, which is a good idea.
scalori should try putting ronaldo in center,instead on the sides all the time. they can use simao and deco on the sides because they can pass to the center well. also have mouthinho and ronaldo play together in the center. i think this would work out well.
viva portugal
09/01/2008 16:17
Firstly sorry for my bad english :-)
In each game ronaldo is set as a winger. in portugal and in man utd. I mean a way of playing all man utd team. When Rooney gotta play next to touch line then ronaldo is a cf and he does his job pretty well. this season situation is the same with quaresma. right now he is working in central area of penalty box as well and even he's started using his head to shooting :-)
greetz from poland
09/01/2008 03:58
Can anyone point to a game where Ronaldo played well at CF? I have seen at least 50% of his man u games and every portugal game for the past 4 years and I have never seen him effective at CF.
Yes, he gets some typical CF goals as a winger, but when he plays too far forward, he doesn't get the ball at his feet enough and he drifts out of the game. He needs to be consistently on the ball to be effective.
Again, I'm happy to be proven wrong, but can anyone point to a game where he was effective in the CF role? I haven't seen it.
09/01/2008 01:57
Deco and Moutinho should both be in the center midfield with Nani/Simao and Ronaldo on the flanks, put Veloso behind Deco and Moutinho and that midfield is unstoppable! Now Portugal just need to develop a top tier striker, I don't think Postiga or Almeida are the answers, maybe use Nani as a striker?
08/01/2008 22:26
Ronaldo can play as a CF. Many of his goal are similar to tipical goals for CF. Right now he is not a simple winger. he can play on every position in attack.
and you know. scolari said his dream was set trio nani-ronaldo-quaresma in normal game but he's a little bit scared :-)
Quaresma played well. He was trying to do sth on the pitch. Rest of the players weren't [excluding Ronaldo]
08/01/2008 22:09
I agree that Quaresma is a talented player, but I don't think he has ever put together a strong performance for the national team. Yes, his goal against Belgium was excellent, but aside from that goal I found his play to frustrating at best in that game. And that was his best performance.
I don't agree that Ronaldo can play well as a CF. I have never seen him play well in this position for club or country. Ferguson gave him a run-out against Birmingham last week at CF when rooney was sick and he was very quiet (outside of that sweet assist on Tevez's goal). The next game, SAF put him back on the wing and had Giggs play at CF. I don't think him at CF is the answer. I think Almeida has to step up (and keep his cool) so I'm hopeful that he puts in a strong second half at Bremem...and stays away from the red cards.
08/01/2008 15:50
I can't agree about quaresma. he played very well against belgium for example or pretty well against finland. for sure he wasn't worse than cristiano.next thing. who is quicker? nani or quaresma? quaresma is quicker with ball, nani is quicker without ball. that's simple. i hopp scolari will set his side like that: nani-ronaldo-quaresma. ronaldo can play very well as a centre attacker
28/12/2007 04:25
portugal will do fine next june no need to worry there perfectly fine once all the players are in perfect form we should have no problem wining the euro cup 2008.we got italy to face off against in february i think portugal will win i would have a 3-3-4 formation with
my 3 forwards:
LF: Ricardo Quaresma
CF:Hugo Almeida
RF:C.Ronaldo
my 3 mids:
LCM:Maniche
CM:Miguel Veloso
RCM:Deco
my defenders:
LB:Paulo Ferierra
CB:PEPE
CB:Carvalho
RB:Boswinga
and ricardo as keeper
then scolari could have moutinho,nani,simao,nuno gomes,meira,miguel and quim as back ups :D to me portugal is just fine if we beat italy we can win in euro 2008
18/12/2007 02:03
i agree with orlando about Quaresma he is not a consistant player, and hasnt had a good game in my opinion since we faced Brazil. I am also disapointed that scolari chose to play him instead of Simao and because his reluctance to play nani and miguel veloso more often. but i think our biggest problem is in our striker position, nuno gomes is a joke now and i dont think Almeida or Makukula are ready to make the jump to have a starting debut in the euro but other then that i think we have a good chance, we usually buckle down hen go to big tornaments
Forca Portugal
05/12/2007 17:15
All you gentlemen make fine points.. but like Tony said.. it is not that I believe Quaresma to be a bad player.. he is not he is an exceptional player.. but his form hasn't been there for the national side.. for the most part with Porto he excels except for the odd occasion.. I just feel Nani has a better shot.. and is quick to attack.. which doesn't allow the defence time to adjust.. That is my personal choice although Ferguson & Scolari both are taking it very easy with his development.. too much so..
I also agree with the commulative affect of injuries Andrade hasn't looked the same.. and probably never will again.. unfortunately.. but we do have some pretty strong replacements.. I too agree with Meira anchoring the Mid D.. Pepe will partner perfectly with Carvalho.. they also both head well so it gives us some targets in the box late in the game.. think about it you could have Almeida, Makakula, Ronaldo, Meira, Carvalho, & Pepe all in the box late in a game to add an aerial assault and a clinical hea
02/12/2007 16:46
quaresma doesnt shine for porto against big teams because the other team focuses on stopping him cinsidering hes theyre only playmaker/game changer....and andrade is done his career at top level is over its pepes turn now with meira moving up to dm
01/12/2007 07:35
I would never argue but like to have good dialogue on Portuguese soccer. I respect Matt's feedback and love the passion and I agree with many points. I know that Matt is not the only person who has a strong opinion of Quaresma but besides the friendly against Brazil and qualification game at home against Belgium, Quaresma has been been disappointing. I like Quaresma but I can no longer justify his place as a starter based on data (games played in past year). His display against Liverpool on Wednesday not beyond any rational explanation. He was horrible just like the last qualifiers. So what if he shines against minnow Portuguese clubs, he doesn't shine against good competition. I would love to see Quaresma shine over the highly overrated Simao (another spot bench player).
Quaresma is very inconsistent and Portugal can't count on him. Nani is young and developing and I think will offer more consistency.
Andrade is one of my all time favorite players but I have to admit that he never recovered t
01/12/2007 03:48
i like the past comments but i dont like it when people say quaresma is a bad player he isnt hes much like ronaldo.o and the thing about nani he isnt ready to play on the starting line up if he did he wouldn't contribute enough hes not ready yet hes for the future i think portugal should consider fixing the defence and getting jorge andrade and carvalhos health back to normal especailly andrade hes a great defender hes been injured lots hes missed the world cup and if he misses euro 2008 were going to be in trouble i dont think bruno alves should start for portugal in euro 2008 hes a slow player and he sometimes leaves wholes in the defence,i think meira could be a good starting defender like we have seen him play well in the world cup with carvalho i think he could do it again hes very talented we got 3 good center backs i hope scolari picks the right center backs to start.i think the midfield is ok i would consider putting veloso in the starting line up hes coming up big for portugal he would do well in e
29/11/2007 13:55
orlando and tony
i like all your opinions, it make sense and all. i enjoyed reading your points and everything.
you know what i think that portugal needs in overall. they need to learn new tricky tactics for the euro. if they cant play like they did back in 2004. they need to at least shoot at goal has many times has possible.
viva portugal
29/11/2007 02:53
Tony.. I agree with everything you said.. sound observations.. you have the exact lineup that I would field in the Euro..
If Almeida gets good service and Ronaldo & Nani both get on fire.. I think that squad could win it..
They are good enough.. and that lineup compares to the best in the world.. and has some depth if injury was to strike..
29/11/2007 02:18
Many interesting points and views. As stated, the important thing is for Portugal to qualify for Euro 2008 and continue to qualify for tournaments. I would love to win a major tournament but I'll settle in a worse case for a top 10 in the world and qualification for tournaments. They didn't get many points for style and there is 6 months to fix the team. Some observations:
1) Portugal needs to get Carvalho back healthy and in form. Even thoug Portugal has depth in defense he is the one player they can't afforded to lose.
2) The crisp and free flowing offensive game has been missing. I think alot of that has to do with Figo and Rui Costa retiring from intl play. Quaresma is horrible and I don't think he will ever be consistent (look at his performance against Liverpool). Simao is not an impact player and is better at complimenting with strong players around him. Nani is the only hope we have for a left winger.
3) The striker situation is still not ideal but Almeida may become a dist
28/11/2007 20:20
PSousa everyone is entitled to their opinion but you didn't read my posts clearly I had Nani in the starting lineup always. I thought I repeated it enough times lol
Simao I had in Deco's spot up the middle if Deco is off his game as he is a good passer and can swerve balls extremely well from outside the box including the awesome freekick not too long ago that resulted in a goal. As for Quaresma you must've missed most his matches because although he has been given alot of chances his play has been poor yet Nani is the one getting less than 10 mins off the bench. As for Scolari we each have our own opinions. the Brazillian nat team puts out probably the best squad in the world every year running yet even in Pele's days they didn't win every CUP so what is your point? Scolari has had to coach Brazil & Portugal cry me a river already we should start a collection for him since he has been so down on his luck.
As for your faith in our team not top tier we have 2 wins over Brazil, a win over Spain, 2 ove
26/11/2007 04:59
Thats great quaterfinals every major comp lets be the buffalo bills of soccer we may not be minnows but we are not first tier...we always have had and do have major weaknesses on the team, forward goalie and LB while teams like italy brasil n germany never do and to say that anyone could have won the wc with the team scolari won with is ridiculous look at the brasilian team now 2 of the top 3 players of the year endless talent blah blah n what are they doing...the bottom line is results and YES we have only been qualifying consistently since 96 look at the WC n Euro records and find out for your self spain holland portugal n england are known for choking except for the fact that theyve all won a euro or a wc except for us....lets not get ahead of ourselves here we have alot of young players that we will be relying on in attack and midfield with no senior level major cup experience....and if you dont think quaresma is the second best talent on the team i think its a little benfica biased going on esp if your
24/11/2007 12:36
Part 2
Portugal has always had quality players but up until the Golden Generation they lacked the mental game & federation political battles to make it to tournaments. They were always highly competitive and gave the top teams a hard run. That Generation's talent was so high that even without the mental toughness & politics they qualified and performed well. That generation has spawned even more talent & is very close to the pinnacle. Scolari's comments irritate considering his Brazil didn't make the final 4. Minnows we re not. We have reached a min of the quarter finals in all but 1 tournament that we qualified for since 96.
With the right Mgr & a striker that hits the target (Almeida) we could starting winning trophies.
The mental game is still the weakest part of the game & is why they have such a hard time with weak sides, his majesty Scolari hasn't solved that.
PSousa my prefered replacement would be Petit for Maniche I feel we need a real defensive mid which was showcased in the last match wi
24/11/2007 11:54
Part 1
I enjoy this chat with passionate folk. George you make a very strong argument that I share about the lack of team work, players now are looking for bigger contracts and use the national team as a stage to elevate their pay. This for me results in the disjointed play. They compete with each other more than the other team. To defend against Portugal play a zone defence & mark a player with possession with 3 players & nullify the play. They usually go it alone maybe they get by 1 sometimes 2 but rarely the 3rd. The Team play is the coaches responsibility to control.
Joe me and you are on the same wave length your tirade was the exact thing that went through my mind you managed to say it so eloquently. I have to work for a living & if I don't perform above standard Im chastized. Scolari wants praise for mediocre performance. If he was selling a product and it was only on par in Quality tests with the poorest product on the market yet commanded a high rate he would be out of business real soon. For me
23/11/2007 21:42
I think portugal can definetly win this euro cup. This team has alot of good players like everyone's favourite c.ronaldo.
along with nani, almeida, maniche etcc...
23/11/2007 17:48
I have been Portugal fans since 06 world cup and Figo is my favourite football player. After his resignation, the team needs time to build up a new form and still has not achieved this, as shown by what we have seen in the qualification round for 08 Euro. The team is full of talents like Ronaldo and Deco, and new blood like Nani and Almida. But still it is not a first class team, Scolari and the team need to work hard to make improvement so as to life the Trophy next year. I hope they can!
23/11/2007 05:08
That's not a bad pot to be in. Portugal have only beaten Germany & Spain once each in the last 20 years & Romania is always a pain in the ass to play against. So NOT having to play any of them is a good thing. With more than a little luck, Portugal could end up with Austria, Sweden & Russia in our group. That's the best it could look like. The worst it can be drawing Holland, Italy & France. Now that group would be a royal pain to get out of. Both of these scenarios are equally as likely with a number of other permutations as well.
Here are the pots:
Pot 1: Switzerland, Austria, Greece, Holland
Pot 2: Cratia, Italy, Sweden, Czech
Pot 3: Germany, Romania, Portugal, Spain
Pot 4: Poland, France, Turkey, Russia
23/11/2007 02:47
We're in a bucket with Spain and Germany, and each team in that bucket will be placed in different groups so the only thing we know right now is that we won't play Spain and Germany in the group stages.
We'll find out whom we have in the group stage on Dec 2nd.
But at this point, it doesn't matter. Whether it be France, Italy, Croatia ... most teams will be quality opponents ... including teams like Turkey and Sweden.
23/11/2007 00:00
well has anyone here looked at what group portugal is in for 2008 next year woo portugal is in for a good one with spain,germany,romania its gonna be tough for portugal to make out of that one i think scolari should consider about what players he should bring to stop germany and spain from making it into the quarter finals players i would bring with me would be
my defence:
meira,pepe,caniera,ferreira,carvalho,andrade,miguel,alves,bosingwa
My Mids:
veloso,deco,quaresma,maniche,ronaldo,nani,moutinho,simao,tiago and hugo vianna
forwards
Hugo Almeida,makukula,nuno gomes
keeps
ricardo,quim,moriera,bruno vale or rui pautricio
portugal better put there best my line up for the 2008 group stage is
gk:ricardo
rb:bosingwa
cb:andrade
cb:carvalho
lb:miguel
rm:maniche
cm:veloso
lm:deco
lf:ronaldo
rf:quaresma
st:hugo almieda
subs could include:
moutinho
simao
nani
makukula
meira
ferreira
caniera
pepe
nuno gomes and so on i know portugal can beat all 3 teams and qualify but first thing is
22/11/2007 23:35
Wait i didnt realise qualifying for a major tourament was tough times and hes right weve only been consistently qualifying for tournaments since 96 and have only been consistently performing well in said tournaments since he took over...and last time i checked we havent won anything so i dont know were these crazy expextations come from we only lost 1 game in qualifying and where one of the best 2nd place teams...As for the petit/maniche debate...your wrong petit was a direct replacemet for Costinha and Meira showed hes our best DM bar none benfica players tend to be overrated ie simao petit m fernandes nuno gomes....my lineup for june not withstanding form....
RB:Miguel
LB:Bosingwa
CB:Pepe
CB:Carvalho
DM:Meira
CM:Veloso
AM:Deco
RW/LW:Quaresma/Nani,Ronaldo
CF:Makakula
PS....Nuno Gomes Sucks
22/11/2007 22:30
I would probably have to side with Orlando on this one.
If Scolari gets a lot of the credit for helping us reach a finals and then a semi-final, why then can't he take some blame for putting us in a position where a Bruno Alves own goal (whew, that was a close one)could have knocked us out?
I want a job too where I get the credit for the good things, but take no blame when things go poorly. Sign me up!
Its the media's job to ask the tough questions, not to kiss ass. He gets paid very well to sit there for a few minutes answering questions about the legitimate concerns people have about this team. Him not being able to handle it shows poor class. Just say no comment, but don't storm out. Thats childish.
22/11/2007 21:45
to orlandomac and vasco
portuguese media are always rough. just like any other sports. thats what they do to sell papers.
maybe scolari trains team by individual maybe because there is no leade