Quaresma dazzles again for Porto

Credited with securing FC Porto's title defence last season, Ricardo Quaresma started the new Portuguese campaign with two goals in a 2-1 win at SC Braga.

Fearsome free-kicks
The loss of key men like Pepe and Anderson represented major blows to the champions in the summer, so the news that Quaresma would be staying at the Estádio do Dragão despite plenty of interest from abroad was a major boost. The 23-year-old winger underlined his stupendous reputation once more on Saturday with two fearsome free-kicks in what was a potentially tricky opening tie.

'All the difference'
Braga coach Jorge Costa knows more about Quaresma's trickery and habit for scoring breathtaking goals than most, having played alongside him at Porto in the 2004/05 season. "We lost the game due to two great goals from Quaresma," he said. "I don't think Porto had more chances to score than us but that's what an outstanding player is all about and he made all the difference."

Coach proud
Porto's coach Jesualdo Ferreira was understandably thrilled for Quaresma, who has been a fans' favourite since joining from FC Barcelona in 2004 and will be crucial in Porto's UEFA Champions League bid. "I know Ricardo very well," he said. "I know how he trains and what he's capable of doing and I always felt he could score. His second free-kick was just amazing."

Final fixture
The champions were one of only three clubs to secure wins in the opening weekend of the Liga season, although CF Os Belenenses and A. Naval 1° Maio could add to that total as they meet tonight in the final tie of the round. Sporting Clube de Portugal opened their account with a 4-1 win against A. Académica de Coimbra while Lisbon neighbours SL Benfica were held to a 1-1 draw at newcomers Leixões SC.