Portugal results queer Queiroz's pitch

Coach Carlos Queiroz is confident 2009 will be a good year for Portugal, but as they attempt to make up for lost points in FIFA World Cup qualifying – starting against Sweden on Saturday – he warns: "We can't afford to drop any more points at home."

'Special look'
The 56-year-old, who took charge of Portugal for a second time when he succeeded Luiz Felipe Scolari after UEFA EURO 2008™, has overseen a mixed opening to the country's qualifying campaign, resulting in a haul of five points from four matches. However, Queiroz predicts better times ahead, saying: "I have a feeling 2009 will be our year. There is a special look on the players' faces. We are confident it will be a special journey till the end of the qualification. We will win matches and score goals."

Shaky start
Even so, the former Manchester United FC assistant manager and Real Madrid CF boss is still to win a competitive home game since retaking the Portugal helm. After a 4-0 Group 1 triumph in Malta, his team lost 3-2 at home to Denmark in their second September qualifier. Then, a 0-0 draw in Sweden in October was the prelude to a Braga stalemate against Albania.

Uneasy change
Queiroz may have a tough task improving matters. He inherited an ageing squad from Scolari, and while he continues to bring in fresh legs, Portugal are yet to reap the benefit of his running repairs. After five years under Scolari, the players are, understandably perhaps, toiling to adapt to the new man's methods, but time is increasingly against them.

Swedish strengths
With Group 1 leaders Denmark and Hungary sitting two points clear of the third-placed Selecção, Saturday's match looks a must-win fixture. "We need to play the Portuguese way – attractive attacking football," said Queiroz, whose team also lost 6-2 to Brazil in a November friendly. "Sweden are a capable and effective side with hard-working players. It won't be easy but we have the motivation to play a great match."

Nerves holding
Queiroz, who led Portugal to glory at the 1989 and 1991 FIFA U-20 World Cups before taking charge of the seniors until 1993, shows no sign of nerves despite the precarious position. "Portugal are in the middle of a marathon," he said ahead of Sweden's visit to Porto's Estádio do Dragão. "We will see how it ends. However, this is a home game and we can't afford to drop any more points at home."

Edinho determined
AEK Athens FC striker Edinho, one of three uncapped players involved along with Leixões SC goalkeeper Beto and Real Betis Balompié right-back Nelson, is determined to help Portugal stop the rot. The 26-year-old former Vitória FC and SC Braga man said: "I am calm and relaxed but I know what a responsibility we have. I am here to seize this opportunity."