Joao Felix backed Portugal to go all the way at the World Cup after Fernando Santos welcomed a selection headache following a 4-0 friendly thrashing of Nigeria.
Bruno Fernandes’ first-half double, coupled with late strikes for Goncalo Ramos and Joao Mario, saw Santos’ side to a comfortable triumph on Thursday before setting off for Qatar.
Atletico Madrid attacker Joao Felix did not manage to get on the scoresheet but impressed in Lisbon, with Santos noting a credible performance from the 23-year-old.
“He was one of the best, with some others. They were all better, nobody plays alone,” the Portugal coach said.
“Joao played a good game too, at the level of what the others did. I have 26 players knocking on the door. Every day they knock on my door in training.
“They all knock on the door and they all have reasons to play. That’s certainly good for the coach.”
Joao Felix suggested he enjoys more attacking freedom for Portugal than Atletico Madrid, as he backed Santos’ side for glory in Qatar, where they face Ghana in their Group H opener next Thursday.
Está passado mais um teste. ✅ Próxima paragem: Mundial! #VesteABandeira #WearTheFlag pic.twitter.com/JnkKXGmiEu
— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) November 17, 2022
“I have more freedom of movement with the national team because we are very mobile,” he said. “I felt good and the team had a great game.
“I think we are prepared to win the World Cup. We looked for the goal and I helped the team, which is my mission as a striker.
“The goals did not appear in this game, but they will happen in the World Cup.”
Santos will also have to consider the return of Cristiano Ronaldo, who missed the friendly victory due to “illness” as the aftermath of his scathing interview on Manchester United continues.