Match-winning midfielder Maniche paid tribute to Portugal's supporters after his side edged out Holland 2-1 last night, to claim a place in Sunday's Euro 2004 final.
Maniche, inspirational for Portugal throughout, scored what proved to be the winning strike after 58 minutes with one of the goals of the tournament, but afterwards pointed towards the Portuguese fans as the big difference between the two sides.
"I could only think about the numerous supporters who were cheering us on prior to the game from our team's headquarters to the stadium. I have scored great goals but this is probably one of the best that I have netted for the national team," he said.
"I could have crossed the ball but I opted to shoot. Seeing as Van der Sar is a tall goalkeeper, I knew that the only spot where he did not have a chance was the top corner and fortunately it went in."
Having ensured their place in Sunday's final, Maniche insisted that he is unconcerned whether Portugal will face the Czech Republic or Greece, who go head to head in tonight's second semi-final.
"It is all about Portugal. I am not worried about who we will face as long as we continue to play as we have done so far, showing our best level of football," he said.
Filed by Rob Wright
