Portugal comeback ends Czech bid

UEFA European Futsal Championship hosts Portugal fought back from 3-1 down to eliminate the Czech Republic and put themselves within a point of a first semi-final.

Marcelinho winner
Having drawn 0-0 with Italy in the opening Group A game, Portugal were hopeful against a team beaten 8-4 by Romania but found themselves behind early to Roman Mareš, who then made another and scored again following Ricardinho's equaliser. Gonçalo and Arnaldo levelled matters just before the break and goals by Marcelinho and Formiga moved Portugal level with Italy at the top of the pool.

Fans shocked
The stands were full and buzzing by kick-off but within 47 seconds the locals were shocked as Michel Mareš set up elder brother Roman to strike past João Benedito. Portugal soon began to dominate possession despite Formiga retreating to the dressing room to receive treatment to his leg and Ricardinho equalised in the seventh minute, turning in an Arnaldo pass.

Czechs ahead
Zé Maria had a shot blocked by Lukáš Rešetár and Ricardinho also threatened, but suddenly the Czechs were back ahead as Roman Mareš teed up David Frič to produce an unstoppable drive. And not long afterwards Roman Mareš produced a sublime chip over the Portugal goalkeeper to extend their advantage.

Scores level
Portugal now pushed desperately, urged on by their fans. Gonçalo was denied by a deflection but then scored as a ricochet off Jan Janovský deceived Tomáš Mellerand. And the Czech lead disappeared as the busy Joel Queirós – restored after missing the opener – had efforts blocked by Michel Mareš and Mellerand before his clever pass was volleyed in by Arnaldo 60 seconds from half-time.

Hosts in front
Joel kept up his flurry of activity after the break, Mellerand called into action on more than one occasion. Portugal took the lead, Marcelinho's 27th-minute free-kick zipping through the legs of the goalkeeper. Although there was still pressure from the Czech Republic, knowing a defeat would ensure they will finish bottom of Group A, Formiga returned to the pitch and settled matters with a neat finish. A draw with Romania here on Wednesday will ensure their progress while the Czech Republic play for pride against Italy in Santo Tirso.