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Shocking defeat doesn't sit well with faithful fans
Portugal fans hugged each other in consolation after their side's shock 2-1 defeat by Greece in the opening match of Euro 2004 on Saturday. Disillusioned supporters watching on TV screens around the capital gave a big thumbs-down to the team's performance. "They were overly confident. They expected to win and because of this they lost," said 23-year-old designer Mina Pereira, Portuguese flags wrapped around her waist and head. Victory would have provided a much needed pick-up for the host nation which is emerging from recession and has been looking forward to the tournament for months, if not years. Fans had yearned for a rebound from the 2002 World Cup when Portugal suffered a surprise first-round exit. "We've given so much to the team, we're always there for them. I think they know they haven't played their best and they'll apologize, I'm sure," said Andre Calado from Lisbon. "Let's hope they'll make amends in the game against Spain." A poll this week showed that nearly a third believed the national side would reach the final. One of 8,000 fans watching the game on two large-screen televisions in a "Fan Park" on the outskirts of the capital, Calado said Portugal tended to underperform against weaker sides. "We always beat the big teams then lose to the smaller teams. I think we'll beat Spain but I'm not sure about Russia," he said. In central Lisbon, fans who had expected to be partying into the small hours were subdued, well out-sung by visiting supporters from France and England whose teams meet on Sunday. Others stayed behind at the Fan Park to continue singing and dancing and most were optimistic about the coming games. "We didn't play well today, but there are three games in this stage, and I'm optimistic about the next two. I think we could still go further," said 26-year-old Gervasio. For the smattering of thrilled Greek fans who joined the home crowd, it was all too much. "People are congratulating us and saying good on you. We thought they'd kill us but they've been lovely," said Vicky Dalamagas-Dietzsch, an Australian of Greek origin. "Now we're just hoping there'll still be a party." |
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