[國家] Scolari looks north, and to life after Figo
Scolari looks north, and to life after Figo
(AFP) September 5, 2006
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Coach Luiz Felipe Scolari admits it is time for a footballing revolution as
Portugal attempt improve on their European championships final appearance two
years ago, without two of their major lynchpins.
Missing striker Pauleta and playmaker Luis Figo, both of whom have retired
from the international game, Portugal face Finland in Helsinki on Wednesday
hoping their World Cup form can make a timely return.
Portugal were one of the form teams of the tournament in Germany and Scolari,
who turned down the England job to continue in his current post, seems
confident they can go all the way.
"The aim for us is to get to the final, and who knows maybe we can go all the
way and be crowned champions this time."
As well as finishing fourth at the World Cup Portugal lost the final of Euro
2004, which they hosted, to Greece.
Scolari added: "After the Euro 2004 and World Cup finals we said it was
impossible to do any better, but in football nothing is impossible when the
desire is there.
"And there's plenty of desire in this team."
Portugal will go into their first qualifier looking to do better than the 4-2
friendly defeat they suffered to Denmark in Copenhagen on Saturday.
However midfielder Petit said most of the players are still looking for full
match fitness.
"None of the players are really match fit," said Petit, admitting that a draw
to Finland in Helsinki "wouldn't be so bad".
Scolari will be without a number of injured players, including Sabrosa Simao,
Ricardo Quaresma, midfielder Carlos Martins and defender Fernando Meira. The
latter two have not been replaced in his squad.
Scolari could adapt his game to fit around the newly-arrived players like
striker Nani and midfielder Joao Moutinho.
"We have to adapt our tactical system," added the Brazilian, indicating that
Portugal would likely play with two men up front.
"We're going to have to make changes to our game."
Taking Figo's influence into account, Scolari added: "The only player whose
game resembles Figo's is Deco."
However the man known as 'Big Phil' said it was Manchester United's Cristiano
Ronaldo who would be their star man.
"He will probably be one of the greatest players Portugal has seen. He just
doesn't stop improving, getting more and more experience and maturing."
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