Portugal manager remains confident in his ‘amazing’ side
PARIS His side still hasn’t won a match at Euro 2016, but Fernando Santos insists they will make the final.
Portugal’s manager told reporters ahead of Wednesday night’s decisive Group F match against Hungary that he isn’t returning home until July 11, a day after the final is staged at Stade de France.
“How can I promise that?” Santos responded at Parc Olympique Lyonnais in Lyon. “Because I believe in my players.
“… I’ve already said this: My group is amazing. We’ve been exemplary. We have worked hard. We’re committed. We have quality players. Why wouldn’t I believe in them?”
For one, Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo is in a goal-scoring slump amid concerns from local media he’s either unhappy or depressed. Media have even inquired as to why the world’s best player has seemingly stopped smiling after squandering a late penalty against Austria last weekend.
“The day after the first match you said Ronaldo was all smiles,” Santos answered. “Now, it’s that he’s not smiling. I’m sure he’ll get over everything and do what he does best: Score.”
Following a Matchday 1 draw with Iceland, Portugal needs at least a draw Wednesday night to advance as a third-place finisher .
The winner of Group F could meet Italy or Belgium in the Round of 16, while the runner-up in Portugal’s group will play England.
“I have no preference,” Santos said. “I do not care who we play next. We just want there to be a next opponent. We want to win this match.”
More than anything, the Portuguese need to prove to themselves that all of the chances they’ve created are indicative of their quality.
The Iberians were fairly dominant in Saturday’s goalless draw with Austria, but were stymied by goalkeeper Robert Almer.
“We played one of the best matches in this Cup,” Santos reminded those in the room. “You think that was nothing?”
It doesn’t matter what it was. Portugal will be out of this tournament unless it collects a result. CURRENT GROUP F STANDINGS: 1. Hungary (4 points) 2. Iceland (2) 3. Portugal (2) 4. Austria (1)