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Cech: Anything can happen when Czech Republic take on Portugal
Jun 18, 2012 9:18:00 PM
The Chelsea goalkeeper was full of praise for the Seleccao and star player Cristiano Ronaldo, but he insisted that his side have a chance to make the semi-finals
Petr Cech has refused to write off Czech Republic's chances of beating Portugal in their Euro 2012 quarter-final clash on Thursday.After finishing top of Group A, Michal Bilek's side will now lock horns with the Seleccao, who placed second in Group B following Sunday's 2-1 victory against Netherlands.
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It was an excellent performance from the Czechs - the first 20 minutes aside - they knew the Polish would tire and took full advantage in the second half.
Petr Cech was very composed and exuded confidence in opening exchanges, despite the howler from the Greece game just days earlier. The Czech Republic are really starting to grow into the tournament and ran out deserved group winners in the end. |
Petr Cech was very composed and exuded confidence in opening exchanges, despite the howler from the Greece game just days earlier.
The Czech Republic are really starting to grow into the tournament and ran out deserved group winners in the end.
Paulo Bento's side are highly favoured for the match after surviving what had been described as the 'Group of Death', but the Chelsea keeper says that he is looking for a repeat of the Euro 1996 quarter-final clash between the two teams, when his country won 1-0.
"We have not lost yet, of course you can beat anyone on a good day," he told AFP. "We definitely have a chance to advance. It is sport and anything can happen.
"They are among the world's top 10 teams. They are a team filled with personalities and outstanding players, and they play very well.
"Against Netherlands on Sunday, they were excellent up front. They also have enough experienced players. The team has matured and it is really strong."
Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice against Oranje, and Cech admitted that his team will need to pay special attention to the Real Madrid star.
"He has a powerful shot, he can shoot with his left or right foot," he added. "He can score from any place and his heading is also great."
The game in Warsaw kicks off at 20:45CET.
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