Portugal seeking to oust hosts
Wednesday, June 2, 2004
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Portugal coach José Romão has warned Germany not to play for a draw in Mainz.
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By Tim Dykes in Mannheim
Portugal coach José Romão has warned Germany not to play for a draw in their crucial UEFA European Under-21 Championship Group B encounter in Mainz on Wednesday.
'Deserve respect'
The host nation need just a point to go through as runners-up behind Sweden and secure a semi-final against Italy in Bochum. However, Romão said: "The German side is very motivated - they can afford to play for a draw but I think our team deserves respect from them."
Performance important
Portugal must win and hope that Switzerland do not do likewise against Sweden to qualify from the group. Should the Swedes win, Portugal must better their margin of victory to keep alive their hopes of a last-four berth. "We are facing an extraordinary scenario," said the coach. "But we need to think more about the game and our performance than the result."
Full fitness
Apart from the suspended Ricardo Costa, who was sent off for violent conduct nine minutes from time against the Swiss, Romão has a full quota of players from which to choose. He added: "My team must face Germany with passion. We must try to project a good image for Portuguese football."
Stielike surprised
That objective has already been achieved if Uli Stielike is to be believed. The German coach, who made nine changes to his side before seeing them lose 2-1 against Sweden, said: "I am surprised Portugal only have one point - I expected them to be one of the favourites but I know they will give it their all in Mainz."
More changes
Besides his two reserve goalkeepers, Stielike has now given at least one start to all 19 outfield players in his squad and revealed: "I'll make some changes again and pick the side I think is best from what I've seen. Everybody knows what is at stake and the team will give every effort.
Cautious start
"Portugal have not made as many personnel changes as we have but I'm not sure whether or not that will be an advantage. We will just have to be self-confident but not immediately offensive - we won't risk everything."
