"It wasn't easy not to lose our heads"

Portugal's Vitinha, voted UEFA's Man of the Match in the 2-1 win over Czech Republic, told a press conference that it was "not easy for him and his team-mates not to lose their heads" after the only goal scored by their opponents forced the Portuguese side to mount a comeback.

"We were calm and played the right way. We had to wait to break through their lines and have superiority. We knew we were going to have chances and calmness and patience on the ball was key. We are satisfied," he said.

"It was very important the way we went into the game. The attitude was very important and will be very important throughout the tournament. Czech Republic are a difficult team, they have a good group, they are organised. It wasn't easy not to lose our heads. I'm happy with what we did," he added.

Finally, he spoke about Pepe's record (oldest player to play in a European Championship match) and Cristiano's (only player to play in six European Championships): "They really are records to point to. It's a pride and a privilege to play with them. Five or six Europeans, it's incredible and a source of pride to play alongside Cristiano and Pepe. They are still important and it has to be said, you don't see that a lot. It's a privilege for all of us," he insisted.

 

June 18, 2024