Paulo Bento and his Portugal players were obviously delighted to reach the last four of the Euro 2012 tournament after beating the Czech Republic tonight. Tom Kundert rounds up the immediate reaction from Warsaw.


Paulo Bento, Portugal coach:
“We played 25 minutes where we found it hard to get going, although we were good from the defensive point of view, with no mistakes, but when we were in possession we were not passing accurately and were rushing things. In the last 20 minutes of the first half we improved and we had the best chance.

“In the second half we put in an extraordinary performance. We dominated, we were stronger in our offensive transitions, and we created enough chances not to have suffered so much.”


Pepe, Portugal centre-back:
“In the first half we found it hard to adapt to the game, but in the second half we completely dominated and managed an important victory. The criticism makes us stronger. The most important thing is that we know within the squad we have the ability to go as far as possible. We are a small nation but with a lot of quality.

“Cristiano is used to criticism. The Portuguese people find it a little difficult to support him sometimes because of his way of being. It is now clear that we should support the best player in the world - that’s what I think he is.

“We don’t mind who we play next. I just want us to be well prepared and to reach the final.”


Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal captain:
“Do I want to be the top scorer? No, what I want is to go as far as possible in the Euro. For me it makes no difference if its Spain or France next, sincerely. The team is in good shape. We are to be congratulated. We dominated the Czech Republic completely.”


Fábio Coentrão, Portugal left-back:
“Was this our best display? Portugal have played well in the four games, so I’m not going to choose any. This victory was fantastic, it’s a unique joy. I want to send a huge kiss to my wife, my daughter and my parents. And also to all the Portuguese. Believe in us.

“I was a little worried, as is normal, that I could get a yellow card and miss the semi-final. Every player wants to play. I’m ready for the next one. Whoever we face, I’ll be ready to do my job. Benzema and Sergio Ramos are my team-mates, and are high-quality players.”


Nani, Portugal winger:
“We always have to suffer a little. There was a phase of the game which was tough going. The Czech Republic also wanted to win. Can Portugal win the title? We can. We have to take it one step at a time, like we have been so far. Now we‘ll be focussing on the semi-final. We always have a dream - now it‘s a question of working to fight for that objective.

“Goals? I want to hit the back of the net. Whether it’s against France or against Spain, I want to score. But if I don’t score and we become European champions that’s fine by me.”

By Tom Kundert