Portugal defeats Brazil: beautiful game wins

Wow! What a tasty game. It’s games like this that make it all worthwhile. Portugal defeated Brazil 2 -0, Tuesday, with goals from Simão Sabrosa (82′) and Ricardo Carvalho (90′), in one of the most entertaining games of football I’ve seen in the last year. Brazil started the match in customary fashion with several good chances at goal, but each time failed to put the finishing touch on their efforts. Portugal’s defense offered staunch resistance and always seemed to make that final key block.

The flow of the game was robust with lively action from both teams, but Portugal did appear to move the ball more fluidly. Ultimately, Scolari’s team managed to dominate most of the possession and did a better job of capitalizing on their opportunities. That was the difference in this match.

The dynamic duo
For longtime Portugal fans, this game finally gave us the chance to see Cristiano Ronaldo and Ricardo Queresma in the same starting lineup. Our archives are full of comments drooling over the mere prospect and boy was it worth the wait. Queresma took a few minutes to settle down, but quickly made his mark on the game with dashing runs into the heart of the Brazilian defense. His assists and ball movement were key in both goals.

Ronaldo is riding high on current form with 15 goals in the EPL and a long string of spectacular performances, including 3 consecutive braces. If that’s not MVP material, I don’t know what is. He looked his usual threatening self last night, but this game was a break out match for Queresma. The FC Porto winger is arguably the best player in the Portuguese SuperLiga and has proved it by dominating practically every game he plays. He doesn’t get the coverage that Ronaldo gets in the EPL, but Portuguese fans love this kid too. Kudos to Big Phil for giving him this well deserved chance.

Simão keeps it cool
Yeah, I know we all get a little crazy over the fabulous young talents, but lets not forget that little guy that is slowly making his way up the scoring chart. Scolari must love this guy – speed, control and jaw dropping technique. As a starter or a sub, he’s guaranteed to inject new life into the game. With his years of experience, he gives the team more balance and maturity and will prove to be an important asset in the campaign to win a Euro.

Midfield dominance
Portugal did what they do best. They dominated midfield. So much so that the Fox Soccer Channel commentators couldn’t ignore it, calling it the best midfield in the modern game. Deco, Tiago and Petite did the honors this time around. Deco made a huge contribution in the first half, but was later replaced by Hugo Viana – who provided the assist on the second goal. Tiago started a bit jittery but performed well and continues to get better. He’s having another great season with Lyon and has earned his spot in the lineup.

Stubborn defense
Brazil had their opportunities to put this game away. Portugal makes defensive mistakes – few teams don’t. But as in the World Cup, Portugal showed real grit and determination. No team recovers better from a moment of imbalance. Ricardo Carvalho and Jorge Andrade were fantastic and haven’t lost a beat. Their communication and movement kept the defense focused and tight through the entire match. Petite also put in a great performance with several key stops and steals.

The real work begins
This match was a great confidence boost. Change is never easy. The rocky start to the Euro 2008 qualifiers is proof enough. March will be a make or break month for Portugal’s Euro ambitions. Sitting in fourth place in group A with 7 pts, Portugal must next face Belgium on March 24 and Serbia March 28. You can check the group standings here. Any slip up could spell doom for the campaign, but Big Phil must feel that his chances are pretty good, right about now.

On to the Euro, oh and…Força Portugal!