Defiant Portugal rue their bad luck
Reuters - Saturday 09 June 2012, 22:16
Portugal were left to rue their bad
luck and vowed to fight on after they hit the woodwork twice in
their 1-0 defeat to Germany in Euro 2012 Group B on Saturday.
"Germany scored when we were on top in the game, we
produced a fantastic reaction, we didn't lose our identity, we
looked to play our game and we created enough chances to have at
least equalised," coach Paulo Bento told a news conference.
"We have quality, that was visible, we have personality,
that was also visible, and we have character," added Bento whose
side still have to face the Netherlands and Denmark in the group
considered the toughest in the tournament.
"Some people might say that we played like never before and
lost as usual, but I don't like to see it that way," he added.
"It was a very even game and we created some openings in
the first half which we didn't conclude very well. I still
think this group will be settled in the last game."
Defender Pepe, who hit the underside of the crossbar at the
end of the first half, was equally defiant.
"It was very frustrating not to be able to help my team,
unfortunately the ball didn't go in and the only chance they had
in the second half ended up in a goal," said the Brazilian-born
defender.
"The team had determination and union and above all the
spirit of a big team. We showed we're a strong team and that we
are good enough to go a long way in this competition.
"That's football, the best team doesn't always win."