The national coach previewed the match against Turkey, the second round of Group F in Euro-2024. He addressed Ronaldo’s physical condition but reiterated confidence in the captain.
Turkey: “Different opponents, and I also agree that in the game against the Czech Republic, it wasn’t their plan to have a low block from the start. It was a consequence; we created problems, we controlled the game, they like man-to-man marking and a different defensive work than they did. Turkey is an incredible mix of young talent with important roles and they have the support of Çalhanoglou. They have a lot of quality with the ball, but a coach who sets up a strong defensive structure.”
Different lineup: “It will be a stadium with a great atmosphere, Turkey had a lot of support against Georgia. They have a very strong interior game, we have to stop that, stay compact, have a clear idea of how to stop them, but we need to be ourselves, control the game, and provide width. Against Georgia, Turkey showed they can defend, but with a focus on attacking, the last goal shows the personality and attitude of this Turkey team.”
Francisco Conceição: “We have 23 field players. There are 10 in the starting eleven and then we have a team that finishes. The important thing is that everyone is prepared. In the last game, we had that, Francisco Conceição, Pedro Neto, Gonçalo Inácio, and Nélson Semedo came in and showed why they are here. It was important to come to the tournament and grow, after the game with the Czech Republic we are better. Now with Turkey, we need everyone ready to help. Being in the starting eleven or not is not important for the players.”
Czech Republic: “The result has significant weight. For us, the game data (73% possession, 13 corners) was very good. In the first half, we didn’t have the shots we wanted, we improved in the second half. The most positive note was the reaction after conceding the goal, the team controlled, maintained personality and maturity. We had five shots on target, it was a very good reaction. This didn’t happen against Slovenia and Croatia, it was a sign of growth. There are many data points showing what we did well and what we need to improve.”
Pepe: “He can play in different tactical structures. He is a natural defender, likes to communicate, and can play in a line of three or four, without a problem.”
Arda Guler: “We are aware of Arda Guler’s talent. I always like a team that gives space to young players to be important. Tomorrow we want to win.”
Decisive game: “The second game is the second game. Very important to continue on the path, create competitiveness in the locker room, grow. We want to play well in all games. The focus is to give everything during three games and then we can evaluate and see our role. Turkey has three points, we have three points, both teams will try to win the second game.”
Ronaldo: “I think Ronaldo had three shots on target, he was the forward with the most. He was very disciplined, worked hard. He is a penalty area player, very important. He opens space, no doubt, Francisco Conceição’s goal happens because he is in the area. The important thing is to get to the area, our team is not about direct play, looking for the striker quickly, we want to get there with five or six players. We don’t need to have a player next to him, but four or five.”
More attacking: “It is important to review and evaluate all performances. We have to be clear about what we can improve. The players are very self-critical, they don’t need the coach to show notes. In the three training sessions we had, they were positive, I really liked their attitude, and we have 26 players more prepared than against the Czech Republic.”
Career influences: “The coach who shaped my way of seeing the game was Cruyff. But I had the opportunity to see Toshack, Fabio Capello, coaches who work very well on aspects of a team, but the greatest influence was undoubtedly Cruyff.”
Managing Ronaldo: “Do you know how many minutes he played last season? There is the answer. The important thing is to understand what he gives us, he brings experience, goal opportunities. The physical issue? Just look at the last 12 months. He is in the Portuguese national team because he deserves to be.”
Easier game: “There are no easy games, but it will be different. I think the Czech Republic didn’t try to play the way they did, but it happens. Teams are competitive in this tournament, we have to be prepared, Turkey has talent, but a good defensive structure. The Czech Republic scored with one shot on target and it was difficult. It will be a different game, I agree with Rafael, but there are no easy games.”