Portugal frustrated by Paraguay

Portugal failed to break down a stubborn Paraguay defence in a goalless draw in Braga on Friday night.

Scolari satisfied
It was Portugal's second successive draw after they held the Netherlands 1-1 in Eindhoven in April and coach Luiz Felipe Scolari said afterwards he was satisfied with his players' efforts. "I am happy with the players and with the result," said the Brazilian. "It was important for us to play against a defensive team. We have to be prepared for everything."

Braga farewell
In the final match at the Primeiro de Maio stadium in Braga before a new ground is built there ahead of UEFA EURO 2004™, the Portuguese struggled to break down a well-organised South American side.

Portugal in control
After a tight opening, Pauleta had the first sight of goal on 26 minutes but the FC Girondins de Bordeaux striker was foiled by Justo Vilar. At the other end Ricardo kept out a Gustavo Morinigo effort before Portugal took control as the half-time break approached. Pauleta, Rui Costa and Luis Figo, from a free-kick, all went close.

No way through
Deco replaced Luís Loureiro, a surprise starter, at the beginning of the second half and Hélder Postiga later replaced Pauleta but to no avail as a defence marshalled by Carlos Gamarra held firm, despite the best attempts of Deco, Figo, Rui Costa and Hélder Postiga.

'We played well'
AC Milan playmaker Rui Costa, who earned his 79th cap, said: "I don't think it was a bad match. We played well, especially in the second half, but they acted like a wall and is very hard to break down this kind of team."