Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari was in a confident mood ahead of the important Euro 2008 quarter final game against Germany on Thursday evening. He spoke about a range of topical subjects including the opposition strengths, the pitch and his future.

Following Portugal’s comfortable passage to the knock out stages, many commentators have been quick put Portugal down as one of the favorites to win Euro 2008. Scolari however is weary of a Germany team who he feels are dangerous once the group stage is over. He recognized a key strength that he fears the Portuguese may struggle to contend with. He said “I have to worry about finding some way of dealing with their free-kicks, Number 17 Germany 1.98, No13 1.88, Klose – 1.82, No21 – 1.95. I have to worry about that – and that my players are 115cm, 120cm”.

Scolari was also full of praise for UEFA’s decision to replace the pitch in Basel. Following the game between Turkey and Switzerland last week when torrential rain caused water logging, the decision was taken. Scolari was quick to defend it, despite the short time between games. He said “Let's look at it from another angle. If UEFA…decided modifications should be made we should applaud them for wanting to present us with a pitch in better condition. If it's a problem for Portugal, it's a problem for Germany, too. (It) doesn't benefit one or the other.

Scolari was in a spirited mood and said that he was confident that the game would not be his last as Portugal coach. Scolari recently agreed to become Chelsea manager next season. He said “The fact that I have a new life situation does not cause any anxiety. And I don't expect it to be my last game with Portugal”.

Every Portuguese fan will be hoping that his words come true.