The recently-retired midfielder, now sporting director at SL Benfica, took leave from the national team after the 2004 finals on home soil but is confident coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has managed to replace the likes of himself and
Luís Figo. "There has been an overhaul of the team," Rui Costa said. "We have more young players now, though they are maybe a bit more inexperienced than we were during our time." The 36-year-old former AC Milan star has fond memories of his international swansong four years ago: "It was fantastic to play at home and reach the final, and actually get very close to winning the European Championship. It was a huge honour to be part of that team and it's something I won't forget."
Rui Costa appreciates the advantage that Scolari's current vintage enjoy, with huge support both in Geneva and at their training base in Neuchatel. Capped 94 times, he said it reminded him of the tremendous passion of the home fans who drove Portugal to the brink of success four years ago. "The support of all the fans was unforgettable," he said, recalling that tournament. "They supported us all the way, from our first night in the hotel until the final. My goal against England [in the quarter-final] is a more personal memory, but there were many good moments."
