Double doubt for hosts
Monday, June 28, 2004
Article summary
The injured pair of Jorge Andrade and Nuno Gomes missed training again and are struggling to be fit for Portugal's semi-final with the Netherlands.
Article body
Fitness doubts are growing over Portugal's Jorge Andrade and Nuno Gomes ahead of Wednesday’s UEFA EURO 2004™ semi-final against the Netherlands after the pair missed today's training session.
Twisted ankles
Centre-back Jorge Andrade and striker Nuno Gomes both twisted their right ankles in Thursday's quarter-final victory against England, but played through the pain during a tense match.
Formidable partnership
Nuno Gomes made his mark on the tournament earlier by scoring the goal that ensured the host nation qualified for the knockout stages in their 1-0 Group A win against rivals Spain, while Jorge Andrade has formed a formidable partnership with Ricardo Carvalho at the heart of Portugal's defence.
On stand-by
Fernando Couto, who was dropped from the starting lineup after Portugal's 2-1 opening match loss against Greece, and striker Pauleta, who returns from suspension, could step in to replace the pair if they fail to recover in time.
Last chance
Portugal have one last training session tomorrow before meeting the Dutch at the Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon, which will provide the struggling pair with a final opportunity to prove their fitness.