Duarte sets out hosts' plans
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Article summary
Portugal coach Orlando Duarte has named uncapped Leitão and recalled Formiga in the hosts' squad for the finals in the absence of stalwart André Lima.
Article body
Coach Orlando Duarte has unveiled Portugal's squad for next month's UEFA European Futsal Championship on home territory in Porto.
Leitão chance
Stalwart André Lima and goalkeeper Bebé are out through injury but uncapped A. Lobelle de Santiago FS player Leitão has been given a first call-up along with Formiga, back after a long lay-off. Portuguese champions SL Benfica supply five of the 14-strong squad, who meet Greece in two friendlies at the Multiusos de Gondomar Coração de Ouro on 30 and 31 October before returning to the same venue from 16 November for Group A fixtures against Italy, the Czech Republic and Romania. Duarte said: "Portugal want to win every time and we know just how far we can get in the competition. We hope to have reasons to celebrate on 25 November. The Portuguese futsal family deserves it."
Portugal squad
Goalkeepers: João Benedito (Sporting Clube de Portugal), Alex (Boavista FC), Cristiano (Sporting Clube de Portugal).
Outfield players: Israel (AR Freixieiro), Ivan (AR Freixieiro), Formiga (Burela FS Pescados Rubén), Marcelinho (DKV Seguros Zaragoza), Leitão (A. Lobelle de Santiago FS), Joel Queirós (MRA Navarra FS), Arnaldo Pereira (SL Benfica), Gonçalo Alves (SL Benfica), Pedro Costa (SL Benfica), Ricardinho (SL Benfica), Zé Maria (SL Benfica).
