While recognising his team was far from its best, Paulo Bento refused to be downbeat after the Selecção played out a tame goalless draw against Macedonia. The coach and his players were unanimous in declaring that improvement will be visible in Portugal’s final friendly match before Euro 2012, next week against Turkey.

Paulo Bento, Portugal coach:

“Overall it was a poor result and a poor display. But I’m not worried. Obviously I would have liked us to play better and to have won, but we know it’s preparation game. You know me well enough to know I’m not one for great euphoria or great depressions.

“I’m as convinced after this 0-0 draw as before that we will get to the Germany game in good shape. Of course, we have things to correct. The problem was essentially the slowness of the attacking process which affected our dynamics. It wasn’t a question of attitude.

“It’s positive that we didn’t get any injuries. Other positive aspects include seeing Nani adapt well to another position and then finishing the game with three defenders, taking more of a risk, but retaining a level of patience and the capacity to adapt to other situations.”

Beto, Portugal goalkeeper, who played his second game, three years after his debut:

“It’s a sensation that makes me very happy. Representing my country is a source of pride for me. I felt fulfilled. We could have done a little better in terms of the performance and the result, but I believe we’ll show ourselves to be a very strong team at the Euro.”

João Pereira, Portugal right-back:

“This is what these games are for; to improve and to be strong at the Euro. The most important thing is going to be the European Championship itself. My transfer? It was good for all parties. Now my future is sorted I’ve got a clear head and I’m more relaxed.”

João Moutinho, Portugal midfielder:

“We have a lot to work on, but that’s what these games are for. We played against a team that was defending from before the halfway line and it made things difficult, but we have to move the ball more quickly. We have to improve in all aspects and get to the next game, on Saturday, better than we were today. We are in a tough group and we want to improve our game.”

Ricardo Quaresma, Portugal winger:

“I’m proud to represent our country and it’s sad when our fans whistle us instead of supporting us, but I can handle it. I brush off the whistles, I’m used to it, I just don’t understand why they do it. It’s natural that the players are tired at this moment, that mistakes are made, but that’s why we are here, to work hard and to correct things.”

Bruno Alves, Portugal defender:

“It wasn’t the result we expected, but we are preparing well, and we’ll continue along our road. We gave our best, we always want to win, but the other team was trying too. We have quality and the goals will come. This match will give us rhythm, we’ll be better in the next game, with more velocity."

by Tom Kundert

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