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England

England Coach Warns Against Focusing on Portugal's Luis Figo

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

England coach Kevin Keegan has warned his players against focusing too much attention on Portugal's star winger, Luis Figo, ahead of their opening match at Euro 2000. Keegan believes that while Figo is undoubtedly a talented player, there are several other skilled Portuguese players who could pose a threat to England if they are not adequately prepared. The key to countering Figo's pacy running, invention, and trickery may lie in selecting the right player on the left side of midfield, with Steve McManaman, Dennis Wise, and Nick Barmby all in contention for the role.

Keegan's tactical planning has centered around finding a way to cope with Figo's threat, but he is also keen for his team to focus on their own strengths and play to their own style. He has warned his players against falling into the trap of sitting back and inviting Portugal to come to them, citing the example of Rui Costa, who can "open you up" if he is not looked after. Meanwhile, the England team will be looking to exploit Portugal's inconsistent defense, which has been a weak point for the team.

England has a mixed history against Portugal, with the teams having met only eight times since 1947. Portugal has won only twice, in 1955 and 1986, while England has won three times, most recently in a 3-0 victory in December 1997 under coach Humberto Coelho. Despite their poor record, Portugal has shown signs of improvement in recent times, having gone 11 matches without defeat in the qualifying stage and scoring a total of 32 goals in the process.

Key Takeaways:

  • England coach Kevin Keegan has warned his players against focusing too much attention on Portugal's Luis Figo, citing the presence of other skilled Portuguese players.
  • Keegan's tactical planning has focused on finding a way to cope with Figo's threat, with three players - Steve McManaman, Dennis Wise, and Nick Barmby - in contention for the left side of midfield role.
  • The key to countering Figo's pacy running and trickery may lie in selecting the right player on the left side of midfield.
  • England is keen to focus on their own strengths and play to their own style, rather than worrying about Portugal's threats.
  • The England team will be looking to exploit Portugal's inconsistent defense, which has been a weak point for the team.
  • Portugal has a mixed history against England, with the teams having met only eight times since 1947.
  • Portugal has won only twice, in 1955 and 1986, while England has won three times, most recently in a 3-0 victory in December 1997 under coach Humberto Coelho.

Statistics:

  • England and Portugal have met only eight times since 1947.
  • Portugal has won only twice, in 1955 and 1986, while England has won three times, most recently in a 3-0 victory in December 1997 under coach Humberto Coelho.
  • Portugal has scored a total of 32 goals in the qualifying stage, second only to Spain.
  • Portugal has gone 11 matches without defeat in the qualifying stage.
  • Vitor Baia has reached the 70-cap mark, while five other regulars - Couto, Figo, Joao Pinto, Rui Costa, and Paulo Sousa - have more than 40 caps each.

Sources:

  • The article cites the following sources:

+ (No specific source mentioned)

+ Colin Malam/Associated Newspapers

+ Photograph: PA

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