Portugal fan smiles in defeat

Powerade is offering four lucky winners the chance to experience a unique insider's view of the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in Portugal, including access to training sessions, the media centre, post-match conferences and more. The first Insider's Trip winner, Belmira Ferraz, was at the Estádio Municipal de Braga for the tournament's opening match between Portugal and France. She gave the following account.

The day of my trip to the Estádio Municipal de Braga finally arrived. I picked up my accreditation and when we got there, the Portuguese national team were about to start training. It was instantly clear that everyone was deeply concerned with the security of our players. We could see the extent of the security surrounding this great tournament that Portugal has the honour and pleasure of organising.

Spectacular stadium
The stadium was grand and quite unusual. Those who see it on television cannot understand just how majestic it is. The view of the quarry is impressive and I think the way the architect has blended the surrounding countryside with the building is ideal.

Tight security
There were security personnel in the quarry and all around the stadium. While we walked around the stadium and passed several security levels, we were constantly approached by security guards who would check our accreditation and provide us with useful information.

Moutinho moment
During the training session I was able to watch my favourite player, João Moutinho. After taking a picture with my camera, I left him and his team-mates to concentrate on warming up for the game.

Unique experience
The match did not go well for Portugal, because we lost against France. The team did not play well and looked listless. The French ran more and that led to weaker support from the Portuguese fans. The opening France goal was very strange but deserved, in the light of everything they did over the 90 minutes. To be able to see the game from the pitch and to be so near to what was happening was amazing though. I now admire the professional photographers and the way they remain so calm during a game.

Press conference
After the match I went to the press conference, which took place in a silent room filled with newspaper, radio and TV reporters. The France and Portugal coaches answered questions from reporters. Both analysed the game according to their view. As expected, the French coach was happier with the outcome, while our coach asked for solidarity and insisted nothing is lost. I hope that is the case, but I certainly had an incredible day.