Scolari agrees new Portugal deal

Luiz Felipe Scolari will lead Portugal in their UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying campaign after agreeing a two-year contract extension today.

In demand
The deal was announced on the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) website. The FPF thanked Scolari for his conduct during the negotiations, particularly in view of the interest shown in the former Brazil boss by other teams.

EURO final defeat
The 57-year-old Scolari has been at the Portugal helm since 2003, having guided Brazil to victory in the 2002 FIFA World Cup. He inspired the Portuguese hosts on their way to the UEFA EURO 2004™ final, where Greece claimed a surprise 1-0 win.

History maker
Scolari's side overcame that setback to qualify for this summer's World Cup in style as group winners. Portugal eventually finished fourth in the Germany tournament, their best showing since 1966. 'Big Phil' made history too during the competition by becoming the first coach to claim eleven straight wins in the World Cup finals.

Qualifying bid
Portugal now turn their attention to the UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifiers. They will face Belgium, Finland, Poland, Serbia, Azerbaijan, Armenia and Kazakhstan in Group A, with their first game coming against Finland on 6 September.