 Given that Portugal finished as finalists at UEFA EURO 2004 and semi-finalists at World Cup Germany 2006, A Selecção das Quinas have displayed some electrifying football in recent history, but the Portuguese have never taken home a major prize. Having never progressed beyond the semi-finals of a World Cup event, Portugal is setting its sights on going all the way come the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa. Coach Carlos Queiroz, who was born in Mozambique, is no stranger to South Africa, and his prior experience as the host nation's coach could prove to be very valuable. With the likes of such talented players as their superstar captain, striker Cristiano Ronaldo, and mid-fielders Pepe and Deco to call upon as needed, Queiroz is fully aware of just how high the expectations will be. After getting only one win out of their first five group matches, Portugal quickly went from being the favorites to finding themselves on the verge of elimination. However, the second half of the qualifier brought about quite a spectacular turnaround, and A Selecção das Quinas scored eight goals, while allowing none, in their last four group matches to earn a playoff spot. Despite the absence of Ronaldo, the face of their nation's team, for the two-legged tie against Bosnia-Herzegovina, they won home and away to clinch a comfortable 2-0 aggregate victory. While Portuguese fans are understandably excited about Cristiano Ronaldo's involvement on soccer's biggest stage, the 2008 FIFA World Player played only a minor role during qualification, having failed to score in any of his seven appearances. Regardless, the Real Madrid star has become known for the ability to rise up in any big situation and will undoubtedly be one of the main players to watch come South Africa 2010. A Selecção das Quinas is no pushover on defense either, with Bruno Alves providing plenty of aggressive play and aerial ability at both ends of the field, while Ricardo Carvalho possesses plenty of solid experience on the backline as well. While Pepe may be questionable in the mid-field following a knee injury, with the loss of defender Jose Bosingwa also worth a mention, veterans Simao and Deco will be expected to step up at forward and in the mid-field respectively.
|
