Brazil backs Big Phil

Controversial style
Valuing efficiency over the 'beautiful game' and putting teamwork before individual talent, Scolari's style often put the Brazilian population and media against him, as with his notorious decision to leave national icon Romário out of the squad that would become world champions in Korea/Japan.

Fortune reversed
In Portugal, the coach's story seemed bound to repeat itself when the Portuguese press savagely opposed him leaving goalkeeper Vítor Baía out of his EURO 2004™ selection. But as he did in Brazil, Scolari reversed his fortune in Europe by achieving unprecedented results and winning the hearts of the Portuguese people, media and players.

Love affair
Now, with Portugal on the verge of attaining their first major piece of silverware, the nation is completely smitten with Scolari, mirroring what happened in his native country two years ago. And the success of the 'Encarnados' has earned the coach new songs of praise from the Brazilian press.

Indirect influence
"In Wednesday's [semi-final] match, the substitutions made by coach Luiz Felipe Scolari did not result directly in goals, as in all of Portugal's other games at EURO 2004™," said Folha de São Paulo, Brazil's largest newspaper. "However, both Portuguese goals against the Netherlands came from set-pieces, a strong characteristic of the Brazilian's teams."

Shining star
Meanwhile, O Estado de São Paulo gave the manager even more credit for the hosts' achievements. "Luiz Felipe Scolari's star shines with ever greater intensity, and reflects itself on Portugal's national squad. The hosts of EURO 2004™ beat Holland 2-1 on Wednesday night in the semi-final played in the Estádio José Alvalade, and for the first time in their history will decide the continental title."

'European champion'
"Commanded by an unstoppable [Luís] Figo and a Big Phil always successful in his decisions, the Portuguese broke the curse of never reaching a final," read Jornal do Brasil. "If Portugal are searching for their first-ever title, Luiz Felipe Scolari is 90 minutes - or 120 - away from glory. He may become European champion two years after winning the FIFA World Cup with Brazil" - and so hope ten million Portuguese.