Defender set for 'goal machine'
Sunday, June 27, 2004
Article summary
Jorge Andrade expects to be fit to go head to head with Ruud van Nistelrooij when Portugal meet the Netherlands in Wednesday's semi-final.
Article body
Ankle injury
The RC Deportivo La Coruña defender has been an outstanding performer in the finals so far, playing every minute of the host nation's four games. However, he picked up an ankle injury in the quarter-final victory against England, causing some concern that he would be unable to face the Dutch.
Striking challenge
"I am not a doctor, but I am hoping to be on the pitch on Wednesday," he said. "I am feeling better now and I except to be totally fit against Holland." The 26-year-old is anticipating a personal duel against Netherlands striker, and joint tournament top scorer, Ruud van Nistelrooij, whom he labelled a "goal machine" today. But he added: "We will face a strong side and not just Van Nistelrooij."
Team game
Jorge Andrade highlighted "the quality of the Dutch attack, including not just Van Nistelrooij, but also [Roy] Makaay, [Patrick] Kluivert and the left winger [Arjen] Robben." He continued: "It won't be a clash between me and Van Nistelrooij, but between Portugal and Holland, so we have to play as a strong unit to nullify our opponents' strengths."
Rooney message
The player also had some words for England striker Wayne Rooney who, like Van Nistelrooij, scored four goals in the finals before breaking a bone in his foot following a challenge with Jorge Andrade in that dramatic last-eight clash. He said: "I wish him all the best and hope that he will recover quickly."
Plenty of quality
Jorge Andrade also refused to consider the notion that Portugal were favourites to lift the trophy on 4 July. He said: "It is true that Spain, England, France, Germany and Italy are out, but the teams that have qualified for the semi-finals have enough quality to win the tournament.
Open game
"At this stage, we don't expect help from anyone, and we are sure that the match against Holland will be very difficult. We can experience difficulties when facing offensive teams. I think it will be an open game, with lots of goals and opportunities for both sides. It could be one of the most exciting matches in the finals."
