Here are the key statements from coach Francisco Neto after Portugal’s 1-0 defeat to the Netherlands in the opening match of the Women’s World Cup.
“We will always think we could have reacted right after the first goal, but I think we even started well, balanced and we were very balanced defensively throughout the game, in the two structures presented. In the Euro 2022 game, they had a lot more chances, they played a lot more in the last third and had a lot more time on the ball, but I admit in the first half we struggled a lot to have the ball, that was the great aspect where we were not good.”
“We conceded another goal, but in other set pieces we were competent, we won the first ball. It’s an aspect we’ve worked hard on since the European Championship, but we’re not yet at the level we want to be.”
“We must also not forget who is on the other side, who has already played in finals, who are very experienced and who have merits. That only appreciates what they knew how to do. The players had a lot of courage and character. Against a team that is vice world champions, we managed to break the pace in the second half, stay on the ground and make substitutions to gain time, because Portugal were superior.”
“Could I have moved earlier? After things happen, it’s different. It’s a reflection we have to do as a technical team, there will be things we have to improve, but we’re too hot to understand.”
“At the beginning of the second half I realized that the team was better, attacking more, having more possession, although with some bad decisions in the last third. The substitutions happened because of strategy and fatigue. Those who came in added, but those who were in also did what we asked. Even with the players who came in, we dominated at the beginning of the second half. . It won’t be an easy game.”
“The dressing room is sad. A few years ago, after losing 1-0, the players could be relieved, but now, with the ability and work of many people, they are frustrated when we don’t score with the best teams in the world. They believe they can do things better. Whether it’s a win or a defeat, we impose a very short period to celebrate or mourn. Tomorrow [segunda-feira], at the time of training, we should already focus on Vietnam. In the past nine years, the previous game must be ended at the next training. This is the custom.”
“We tried to anticipate what the game would be like with Vietnam and now, in these three days, we’re just going to confirm, also for what they played in the first game. We need to understand how we are and change our mindset.
Source: DN
