Portugal can’t be compared to negative Greece, says Nani

Marcoussis (France) (AFP) – In-form Portugal winger Nani refuted suggestions a side spearheaded by Cristiano Ronaldo are basing their quest for Euro 2016 success on defensive tactics similar to those which saw Greece beat the Portuguese to win Euro 2004. It took 117 minutes for Portugal to even manage a shot on target as they squeezed past Croatia 1-0 after extra time on Saturday thanks to Ricardo Quaresma’s late header to book a quarter-final meeting with Poland in Marseille. Portugal coach Fernando Santos was in charge of Greece for four years before taking over A Selecao in 2014 and admitted

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It took 117 minutes for Portugal to even manage a shot on target as they squeezed past Croatia 1-0 after extra time on Saturday thanks to Ricardo Quaresma’s late header to book a quarter-final meeting with Poland in Marseille.

Portugal coach Fernando Santos was in charge of Greece for four years before taking over A Selecao in 2014 and admitted “pretty football” rarely wins tournaments.

However, having netted twice in France, including in a thrilling 3-3 draw with Hungary, Nani claimed the comparison with the resolute Greeks that shocked Europe 12 years ago was unfair.

“I do not see it like that. We’ve played four games and Portugal cannot be compared to Greece,” said the Fenerbahce man.

“We have played different games in different ways. I think we have played well and against Hungary, for example, we scored a lot of goals and put on an exhibition in attack.”

Nani, 29, also netted in Portugal’s opening 1-1 draw against England’s slayers Iceland.

And having won his 100th cap against Croatia, he believes he has never played better at international level.

“I feel good. I am here to help Portugal and possibly I am in the best form I have ever been with the national team. I have come to this Euros to help out, score goals and contribute to the success of the team.

“We have an objective which is to win the title and we will do everything to achieve it.”

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