Portugal savouring shot at WU17 glory

Portugal's UEFA European Women's Under-17 Championship aspirations hinge on their desire to work hard and "improve every day" according to coach Susana Cova. 

Portugal emerged from the elite round of qualifying with minimum fuss, but Cova is not about to fall victim to complacency as her side limber up for the challenge of hosts England, Austria and Italy in Group A. "It fills us with immense pride and honour to be part of a European Championship," said the 39-year-old, whose charges prefer to do their talking on the pitch.

UEFA.com: What is your reaction to the draw? 

Susana Cova: First of all, it fills us with immense pride and honour to be part of a European Championship. We have to respect each of our three opponents. England are the home team, so they will be extremely motivated to impress on home soil. Austria will be doubly motivated because it's the first time they have qualified for a tournament at this level. We have already had the pleasure of playing Italy in the elite round and they are a strong side.

UEFA.com: What are your ambitions for the tournament?

Cova: We want to improve every day as individuals and as a team. We need to work extremely hard and see where that takes us.

UEFA.com: How important is it for your team to be playing at this level?

Cova: It is extremely important. I want to take this opportunity to thank our federation for what they have done this year because their support ensures that young players can make the most of their talent, not only at international level. It will help increase the number of players in Portugal at grassroots level which is fundamental to the future of the game. We want to see more and more quality players fulfilling their potential.

UEFA.com: What qualities does your team have?

Cova: Instead of talking about our qualities, we want to prove how good we are on the pitch – that is what the technical team always say.