History of Portugal World Cup
Though the Portuguese Soccer fans are obsessed and mad about soccer, Portugal has qualified only four times for the World Cup in 1966, 1986, 2002 and 2006. In 1986 this colorful team failed even to pass the first phase. In 1966 World Cup, though the team had secured a third place beating yet another very strong team England. According to FIFA World Cup Rankings Portugal enjoys a 5th rank among the 204 teams. Portugal was one of the strongest teams along with Mexico, Iran and Angola in the Group D of the FIFA World Cup 2006.Team profile of Portugal World Cup
Manager Antonio Oliviera became a hero for taking Portugal to the World Cup in1986. But it was evident that the essential ball possession and ball dribbling skills seldom translated into wins for the Portugal World Cup team. The Portuguese team for FIFA World Cup 2006 had been trained and mentored under the Brazilian coach Luiz Felipe Scolari.. Exemplary player Louis Figo, was the captain of this team. Cristiano Ronaldo is a bright star in the team known for his splendid and flashy skills. Pedro Pauleta , Nuno Gomes and Helder Postiga are among the top goal scorers. Eusobio, the top goal scorer in 1986 has been nicknamed as 'The Black Panther.Tactics used by the Portugal World Cup Team
The illustrious Brazilian coach Scolari had to churn up exclusive strategies to tackle the World Cup challenge. The overall Portuguese record at the World Cup final stages were 12 matches played, 7 wins, 5 losses 25 goals in favor and 16 against. The 2006 World Cup witnessed Portugal finishing fourth after being defeated by Germany.It in indeed a surprising fact that with numerous star players Portugal World Cup is yet to reach its zenith of glory. Portuguese soccer fans never lose hope and still hope that the next Portugal World Cup team, will rank in the first 3 positions. A bright road ahead is yet to be explored.
