Player Watch: Vieirinha

The first time I watched Vieirinha play seven years ago, I became an immediate fan. At the 2003 FIFA U-17 World Championship, he launched a missile from within Portugal's own half that only had one destination - Cameroon's goal. I was awe struck, and followed his career from that moment on. Furthermore, at the 2003 UEFA U-17 Football Championship, he won Player of the Tournament ahead of Cesc Fabregas. He was formed in the youth ranks of Vitoria de Guimaraes, and snatched up by Porto after his brilliant 2003. Fast forward through a few loan moves to the present, and he is currently plying his trade under Fernando Santos for Greek side PAOK. His stellar performances since his arrival two years ago have helped transform the club. PAOK finished 9th in the 2007-08 season before his arrival, but bettered that by five spots with his help in the 2008-09 campaign. Now 24, he has lead the charge for PAOK in the current campaign, lifting them to second place, and bagging seven goals and numerous assists in the progress. I firmly believe Vieirinha can cement a worldwide status for himself if he joins a league with greater international exposure. His huge talent is undeniable, and recently put on a show for the Portugal U-23 squad against Wales, where he brilliantly set up two goals. Given his call up to the U-23 squad, it's known he's on Queiroz's radar, but let's hope Queiroz gives him a shot at the big time sooner rather than later.

Big Trouble in Little China

Portugal limped to an insipid, uninspiring victory over the Chinese yesterday. Although we had the lion's share of possession, complete control from the opening whistle, and looked rather comfortable on the ball, it was still a victory that lacked a cutting edge in front of the opposition's goal. We came close several times - including a Chinese clearance off their goal line, and a couple cracks of the framework - but we simply didn't punish them and bury our chances as we should have. This concerns me because when we come up against better opposition at the World Cup, the number of chances will be far fewer, and if our conversion rate remains the same, we just won't have a chance at winning anything! What particularly irked me was in the second half when Hugo Almeida dropped to the left wing, and took the responsibility of sending in cross after cross...First of all, he is a STRIKER, and secondly, he was our largest threat up front, he should be on the end of the crosses, not delivering them! Some could argue that the wholesale changes at the half compromised the fluidity created by the initial XI, but I say that's a bunch of bullocks! If we truly have one of the best squads in the world, then even our bench should be able to take care of the 83rd FIFA ranked Chinese!

Player Watch: Makukula

Makukula is staking his claim for a call-up to the selecção - he has scored 16 goals so far this season for Kayserispor in the Turkish Super League, currently lifting them to 5th place with as many as 2 games in hand against the teams in front of them. Take a look at the goal he scored over the weekend. It sure would be great to have a tall, physically imposing target man up front to launch a long ball or two up to throughout a game. He may be able to sneak onto the squad as our third striker behind Liedson and Hugo Almeida, and ahead of Nuno Gomes and Helder Postiga. Personally, as much as I love Nuno Gomes and Helder Postiga, I feel as though now is Makukula's time. He should be given the chance, so make the call Queiroz!

The Fountain of Youth

The skill and leadership of Figo...

The vision and elegance of Rui Costa...

The trickery and elusiveness of João Pinto...

The speed and power of Eusébio...

The control and efficiency of Mario Coluna...

The tenacity and commitment of Sergio Conceição...

If you could offer any three retired Portuguese internationals - such as those mentioned above - a sip of water from the fountain of youth, who would you bring back into the fold to help us at this summer's World Cup?

Personally, I'd choose the following:

1. Eusebio - to have a legitimate threat up front for 90 minutes
2. Figo - to serve as our team captain and lead us to victory
3. Rui Costa - to pull the strings from midfield and provide fluidity

On deck:

4. Mario Coluna
5. João Pinto

Plastic Jerseys!

Nike raised a few eyebrows in London yesterday during the official unveiling of their away kits for this summer's World Cup. They announced that their nine national teams - Portugal and Brasil included - will wear tops made entirely from polyester. Nike claims this green approach will prevent approximately 13 million plastic bottles from ending up in landfills, with each shirt made from up to eight recycled plastic bottles. Nike's fabric suppliers melted down discarded plastic bottles to produce new yarn that was ultimately converted to fabric for the jerseys. It's great to see such a massive and powerful corporation in Nike making a responsible, socially aware decision that promotes environmental preservation.


In the first picture above, Nani is seen modeling the away kit. And in the second image - a promotional action shot by Nike - Ronaldo is wearing Portugal's home kit. Which kit do you like better? Are you as fond of these jerseys as previous ones?

The Exorcism

Let us mark today, Thursday, February 25, 2010, as the day that Sporting finally liberated itself from the evil clutches of Hades. No longer will our leões be dragged through the mud as he tries to pull them down into his lifeless netherworld...

In addition to Sporting's astounding 3-0 triumph over a highly in form Everton today - who have deservedly beaten both Chelsea and Manchester United recently - Sporting announced the appointment of Costinha as their director of football. The decision to bring on board a "highly ambitious, natural winner" in Costinha has been met by plenty of excitement, and given the thumbs up by the fans.

If things continue to unfold this way for Sporting in the coming months, then their pastures will definitely start to look a bit greener.

Laces P'ra Fora, Hard Com Força!

Ronaldo has arguably grown into the world's best free kick taker. He has a unique style of striking the ball, and puts a swerve on it like no one else can. His confidence in his striking ability allows him to take shots most wouldn't even attempt in a scrimmage. This makes his free kicks very dangerous, as a keeper has no clue as to where he might place it. Also, the exceptional way he strikes the ball - with such raw power - generates so much acceleration, that even if a keeper goes the right way, they'll never make it on time to stop it.

Even though Ronaldo's free kicks have become legendary, I still think Portugal has a few other set piece specialists who should be given a fair chance. Depending where the ball is on the field, these other players might be better suited to take the free kick. For example, for free kicks on the left side close to the 18 yard box, I'd prefer Simão's right boot, and for free kicks on the right side close to the 18 yard box, I'd prefer Miguel Veloso or Duda (for their left feet). Any free kicks centrally located, or further than 18 yards out, I'd prefer Ronaldo's technique.

Who do you think Queiroz should have taking our free kicks? Do you want Ronaldo taking all of them? Or do you agree in dividing the responsibility? And if so, who else do you want to see taking them?

Então Brazuca, Tudo Legal?

The sensitive issue of calling up naturalised Brasilians to our selecção has been around since Deco's first inclusion back in 2003. At first, highly respected team members such as Luis Figo and Rui Costa opposed the decision, and criticized the direction taken by the FPF. However, they later recognized Deco's immense value, and accepted him as one of their own.

Fast forward seven years, and two more Brasilians have joined the ranks - Pepe and Liedson. There is no questioning the talent of these three Luso-Brasileiros, however, there still exists a fundamental debate here. Is it acceptable to be naturalizing Brasilians, and having them take the place of a Portuguese born player, when there are in fact so many to choose from? I will be the first to admit that Pepe, Deco, and Liedson are simply better at what they do than anybody else in Portuguese soccer, as they are simply that good. However, is it acceptable to do this?

Many other successful, proven footballing nations including the likes of Spain, Germany, Croatia, Japan, Italy, France, Sweden, England, etc. have all used or still use naturalised players, so this concept is not new or isolated by any means. The problem here is knowing where to draw the line. If the boundary continually gets pushed further and further, then the national teams won't really represent the country on the jersey anymore, and it'll simply become another level of club football. In Portugal's defense, they can at least argue Brasil was once a colony, and that there are a lot of Portuguese roots still in Brasil.

Anyway, I'm a huge fan of Deco, Liedson, and Pepe, and they've definitely helped our national team a great deal, however, I'm a little wary of naturalising anyone else at this point. What do you think?

I Gotta Feeling...

Although this wouldn't be my first choice for Portugal's World Cup anthem, I must admit I do think it will work. With its infectious beat and catchy lyrics, I easily see it catching on with all generations of the selecção faithful, and eventually developing a deeper meaning for all of us.

Now play the official video, and picture Ronaldo in our opening match unleashing a scud missile from 30 yards out, beating Ivory Coast's hapless keeper...

Portugal will open the tournament with a convincing victory over Ivory Coast, and then we'll do it again, let's do it, let's do it, let's do it, let's do it, and do it and do it, let's live it up!

Os Dragoes Spit Hot Fire in Their 2-1 Victory!

Today's Porto-Arsenal match up was a heated affair contested at a frenetic pace, and was a great showcase of all soccer has to offer. Even the most casual of fans would have thoroughly enjoyed it. There was something for everyone; bone crushing tackles, end to end action, fluid ball movement, mazy dribbles, and a whole lot of controversy.

The Swedish referee, Martin Hansson, who is no stranger to the spotlight - it was under his watch that France dispelled Ireland with a certain hand ball you may have heard about - again put in a questionable performance. He simply allowed the players to get away with too much. This all boiled over during Porto's goal. Hansson correctly whistled down Fabianski's infringement when he picked up a back pass from Sol Campbell; however, his allowance of Porto's astute free kick, though technically correct, was a bit dubious in my opinion. Kudos to Ruben Micael and Falcao's quick wit, but I know that had it played out differently, with the tables turned, I would have been furious Porto suffered such a defeat. Either way, I'm extremely satisfied with Porto's victory tonight, and hope they go very far in this tournament, as they are great representatives of the Portuguese league.

What are your thoughts on Hansson's decision? Do you agree with the way that goal was scored?

P.S. Silvestre Varela scored his 11th goal in all competitions, and put in a Man of the Match performance according to UEFA. The national team awaits...

P.P.S. I wish Hulk was Portuguese, what a sensational player!

How far can we go? To the finals I say!

How far do you think Portugal will go at this summer's World Cup?

I know that all of the squads at the tournament are top notch, and to make it far, you need that extra little bit of effort, that extra little bit of luck. I think if Portugal puts in the hard work, and if our ever elusive Lady Luck finally agrees to dinner, then I think we can make it all the way to the finals! How far do you think they'll go?

Which match is our "mata-mata" ?

I believe Portugal's most important game will be their first match with Ivory Coast. A win will be critical to boost confidence, create a forward momentum, and ensure those early three points for qualification to the knock-out stages. I believe Portugal's second most important match will be with North Korea. If we manage to capture six points before even meeting Brazil, then the pressure on our boys will most likely be next to none for what surely will be an exciting, memorable match.

It's easy to say all games are equally important, but the fact of the matter is, Brazil are our strongest opponents in the group, so to ensure maximum points against the other teams I feel is key. What do you deem as being Portugal's most important match in the group phase?

Portugal v China - March 3, 2010

In just over two weeks, Portugal will play in a friendly match with China. It's obvious this decision was made to expose our players to the Asian brand of football before our encounter with North Korea (in our second group phase match). Also, though it is yet to be confirmed, it has been reported that the FPF is set to arrange a friendly with Mozambique. This is another strategic decision, meant to give our players experience with a style of football they will come up against in the group phase, i.e. that of Ivory Coast.

How important is it to have these types of friendlies against opposition similar to that of our World Cup group? Is every game different, or do these friendlies really serve as an eye opener on what to expect?

Personally, I think the most important part is having the team playing together, and gelling as much as possible. As long as the opposition is of a high quality and serves as a good test, then mission accomplished.

Music and Culture Break

The song playing in this video is a personal favorite of mine, entitled "Lisboa, Menina, e Moça," and performed by the legendary Carlos do Carmo. It invokes strong feelings of nostalgia, and always tempts me to book a flight back to the mother land!

I posted this second video because it serves as a quick and thorough representation of life in Lisbon. Lisbon has it all - history, culture, architecture, night life, sports, beaches, shopping, and a mild to hot climate - and is considered an alpha global city. This city truly is a gem, and I strongly encourage everyone on the planet to visit if they get the chance!

Euro 2000

Before the new millennium, Portugal were always a squad filled to the brim with talent, but perennial underachievers. We were known for fluid passing, great ball movement, and talented players, but also, for a lack of a cutting edge. Then, at a crucial point in Portugal's opening group game at Euro 2000 - co-hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands - something happened, it all just clicked.

England were the unfortunate opponents on that night, unbeknownst to them that the start of something very special was about to occur. England took an early lead, up 2-0 and still in the first half, but then Figo collected a pass unmarked in the midfield, and started his run towards the England net. It was a run that changed Portuguese soccer as we knew it, as he unleashed a screamer that Seaman could only stand and watch. Portugal went on to win that game 3-2, and it marked our long overdue arrival on the international scene. Since that performance, we have been present in every international tournament, and put in very respectable showings (save a shocking group exit at the 2002 World Cup that we shall not talk about).

What is your fondest memory of our national team?

Big Four?

It appears Braga has emerged as a legitimate league title contender this year. However, there are still plenty of games left to play. In what place do you think each member of this newly appointed "Big Four" will finish?

The way I see it, Porto has third place locked up, and will finish the league there. While Sporting's fourth place position is anything but guaranteed, I don't foresee any team knocking them off. The real battle here is at the very top between Braga and Benfica. Benfica had a slip-up against Setubal in their last league match, tying the bottom dwellers 1-1. However, I watched that match, and to be honest, they were lucky not to lose, as Setubal had a goal disallowed due to an incorrect offside call. Also, Setubal was forced to suffer with a couple other erroneous offside decisions that may have resulted in them scoring had play not been stopped. On the other hand, some might argue that Cardozo should have scored his penalty shot in extra time for the win, but I believe that was just karma playing its part. Anyway, my point is that champions need to be as lucky as they are good, and it seems that although Benfica are staring up at Braga right now, they will over take their northern rivals over the course of the remaining league games. And so I believe the top 4 will finish as follows:

1. Benfica

2. Braga

3. Porto

4. Sporting

How do you think the Big 4 will finish?

The Eternal Drought

Our beloved selecção has come agonizingly close to lifting a trophy at the senior level, but the fact of the matter is...we still haven't! If you could put together a trophy-winning, supreme dream team consisting of Portugal's very best players from any generation, who would you include?

Given my age, I know I missed out on seeing a lot of spectacular Portuguese footballers that came and went before the 90's, but nonetheless here is my selection:

Goalkeeper: Vitor Baia

Defense: Boswinga, Ricardo Carvalho, Fernando Couto, Dimas

Midfield: Luis Figo, Rui Costa, Mario Coluna, Fernando Chalana

Strikers: Cristiano Ronaldo, Eusebio

Who's in your best ever Portuguese XI?

Academia Sporting/Puma

As you can tell from the photo above, these national team players are all in phenomenal shape. Coincidentally, all four players have Sporting roots. Sporting's youth academy system is world renowned for its well-equipped facilities, development of world class footballers (including two Fifa World Player of the Year recipients), and dedication to both athletics and academics. Previously known as the Academia de Alcochete, it now goes by Academia Sporting/Puma to reflect the sponsorship contract signed in 2006.

Here is a list of of some of Sporting's most successful and recognizable graduates: Luis Figo, Simão Sabrosa, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ricardo Quaresma, Nani, Carlos Martins, Hugo Viana, Miguel, Luis Boa Morte, Paulo Futre, Miguel Veloso, João Moutinho, Nuno Valente, Marco Caneira, and Yannick Djaló.

Say it ain't so Deco!

Deco has recently said that he will be retiring from international soccer after this summer's World Cup. The departure of our magical play maker will undoubtedly create a void in the heart of our midfield. He is easily one of the best number 10's of the current crop of active superstars, arguably the best when in inspired form. That being said, Portugal has some young and promising talent in Deco's position...

Who is Deco's heir apparent? I'd like to see Manuel Fernandes or Ruben Micael given this responsibility, or maybe even the both of them working together on the field at the same time. Who do you want to see assume the mantle of Portugal's midfield maestro?

Who would you start up front?

Liedson...

Hugo Almeida...

Nuno Gomes...

Or maybe someone unexpected like Makukula, Helder Postiga, Carlos Saleiro, Edinho, Varela, or João Tomas will get a surprise inclusion, and possibly even a starting place?

Or maybe Queiroz will shock all of us and start with two strikers up front? Personally, I'd love to see that possibility given a chance for at least part of a game!

Federação Portuguesa de Futebol

On March 31, 1914, the three regional soccer associations from Lisbon, Porto, and Portalegre worked together to found "a União Portuguesa de Futebol." In its first years of existence, this new governing body of Portuguese soccer limited itself to planning matches between the selecções of Lisbon and Porto, as well as preparing its application to FIFA. In 1922, the "União" organized its first Portuguese league championship, and in 1923, FIFA approved Portugal's application. Finally, in 1926 the "União" made way for what we all know now as the Federação Portuguesa de Futebol.

One of my favorite Portuguese internationals, Miguel, has found himself dangerously close to Valencia's exit door after television cameras caught him poking fun at the coach, Unai Emery...

What would you do if you were the coach? It's being said he is in hot water over this incident, but are Miguel's actions really worthy of punishment?

I'll say this, if Valencia really do away with him, then I hope Sporting pick him up...did anyone see the 4-1 scoreline today... OUCH!

Mufasa

Luis Figo, Sporting's original Lion King, is one of the greatest players to ever grace a soccer pitch. To celebrate his life and career, I have posted one of my favorite fan videos dedicated to him. It is a wonderful compilation of some of his brighter moments for our glorious selecção. I strongly encourage you to watch it all the way through, as it has a great finish!

Ronaldo - too much of a good thing?

Ronaldo is arguably the best player of today's generation of soccer superstars. He is a complete package, and at the club level, dominates the game single-handedly. However, for the national team, it has also been said this is his problem - he tries to do it all by himself...

What are your thoughts on Ronaldo's performances for the national team so far?

Portugal's Starting XI

Carlos Queiroz has some very tough decisions to make in the coming months...

If you were in his shoes, who would you name in your starting XI to ensure Portugal performed to their maximum potential?

Forca!

Here's a song and video that will forever be in the hearts of all Portuguese people who remember Euro 2004...

Where in the world will you be cheering from when Portugal kick-off at World Cup 2010 this summer?

Braga's Rise to the Top

Braga has pulled out all the stops to hold on to first place in the league so far...

With less funds to buy high profile talent compared to the big three, how has Braga managed to rise to the top?

Will Pepe be fit on time?

With less than 125 days until the World Cup kicks off in South Africa, Pepe is in a tight race against the clock to get fit and figure into Portugal's plans for the tournament...

If he does not recover on time, what will Pepe's absence mean to Portugal's chances?