Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari is almost certain of the lineup he will field against Turkey on 7 June, with just one position causing him doubt ahead of his team's UEFA EURO 2008™ opener in Geneva.
Midfield choice
Scolari's men contest their final warm-up game against Georgia on Saturday and the Brazilian told a pre-match press conference: "I almost have the team in my mind. I have only one doubt in midfield, between João Moutinho, Miguel Veloso and Raul Meireles." One of those players will accompany SL Benfica midfielder Petit and FC Barcelona's Deco in the middle.
Fitness race
The mastermind of Brazil's 2002 FIFA World Cup win also promised that his side will be ready when the tournament gets under way, after conceding that fitness levels are not ideal. "Our team is not in perfect condition," Scolari said. "We will play normally against Georgia but not 100 per cent. We hope we can improve gradually until the EURO starts. For example, if the tournament started today Miguel would likely be out. Many players arrived here in poor condition in terms of physique and technique."
'We can win it'
As for Portugal's chances, Scolari added: "After reaching the final at UEFA EURO 2004™ and the semi-finals of the 2006 World Cup, we leave Portugal bearing in mind we could reach the final and win it. However, there are 15 other teams and eight big candidates. So we will focus on qualifying from the group stage and then we'll think about new goals after that." Aside from Turkey, Portugal must also contend with the Czech Republic and co-hosts Switzerland in Group A.
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