Portugal aiming to win

Having reached the final of the European Championships on home soil four years ago, the national team of Barça star Deco now want to go one step further this year and win the tournament.

Billed as one of the favourites, the Portuguese have great strength down the wings with such players as Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani, while former Blaugrana players Simão Sabrosa and Ricardo Quaresma are also in the squad. The only position that the side really lack is up front where they have no renowned goalscorer.

Deco brings balance

The strength on the flanks is complimented in the centre by Deco. The midfielder is responsible for maintaining balance and order in the centre of the pitch and his guidance will once again be crucial if the team is to progress under the guidance of coach Luiz Felipe Scolari.

Group favourites

Portugal are in Group A along with Turkey, Czech Republic and co-hosts Switzerland. The aim will no doubt be for Scolari and his players to finish on top in order to give them some advantage in the later rounds.

Playing Germany

Finishing in first place may guarantee that Portugal miss playing the Germans in the first knockout phase because they are clear favourites to top Group B.