Scolari prepares for epic against Greece
Felipe Scolari is ready for “the most important game in his life” in tomorrow’s Euro 2004 final against Greece.
Just two years ago Scolari rescued Brazil’s World Cup qualifying campaign and steered them to title glory in the Far East, with victory over Germany in the final.
But Scolari has invested the last two years into leading Portugal in Euro 2004 and he is hoping to guide the host nation to their greatest sporting achievement.
“This is the most important game of my life,” said Scolari. “Tomorrow marks an end to two years of hard work, of many dreams. To have arrived to the final is a dream that we have achieved.
“I would be very happy if we can make the most important dream come true.”
Scolari needs no reminding of the quality of tomorrow’s opponents Greece. Otto Rehhagel’s side upset Portugal in the opening game of this championship.
“We have to respect Greece,” said Scolari.
“Regardless of what happens tomorrow, Greece is the winner of this tournament for what they have achieved. They have reached the final when no one gave anything for them at the start of the competition.”
And Scolari has urged his men to play at their highest level if they want to break a side that has ousted defending champions France and title favourites the Czech Republic in their extraordinary journey to the final.
“Greece is an example of collective play rather than individual talent,” said Scolari. “Each time you progress through to the next round, you have to make less errors and we cannot afford to give them any opportunities.
“We have a 50-50 chance to win tomorrow.”
But Scolari has been caught off guard by Rui Costa’s announcement that he will retire from international football after Euro 2004.
“I am surprised about Rui Costa’s decision,” he admitted. “I need to talk to the players about their future and their reasons behind the decisions they decide to take.”
Veteran captain Fernando Couto, who like Rui Costa has lost his regular place in Scolari’s team, confirmed that motivation is at an all time high in the Portuguese camp ahead of Sunday’s showdown.
“We know that this is going to be a very difficult final, maybe not spectacular but certainly very tactical,” said Couto.
“We are looking forward to make our dream a reality.”
The younger generation may have taken centre stage in this tournament, but Couto believes that the experience of the golden men of the green and red – Luis Figo, Rui Costa and himself – has been influential in Portugal’s achievements.
And he revealed in the event of victory, all the players will lift the title together.
“From the youngest player (Cristiano Ronaldo) to the oldest (Couto), we will lift the cup,” said Couto.
