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SportsPortugal basketball captain Queiroz hopes World Cup wave boosts team, eyes first-ever qualification
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Miguel Queiroz, captain of the Portuguese national basketball team, expressed optimism ahead of the 2027 World Cup qualifying matches against Montenegro and Greece. Speaking after winning the national championship with FC Porto, the 34-year-old center acknowledged fatigue from a long season but emphasized that representing Portugal provides immense motivation. He referenced the recent Football World Cup as a potential boost for fan support in Matosinhos. Queiroz highlighted Portugal's November victory over Montenegro and believes the team can compete with top European sides like Greece. He stated that reaching the World Cup, which Portugal has never achieved, remains the goal and is considered possible. He also praised head coach Mário for understanding the players' physical condition at the end of the season.
Source report
FC Porto's Miguel Queiroz has just finished the season as national basketball champion, but the 34-year-old center and captain of the Portuguese national team insists there is "no lack of motivation" when representing his country.
National Pride and Physical Challenges
"We carry our country in our hearts and our family name on our backs, so there is no lack of motivation," Queiroz said.
Acknowledging the demands of the season, he added: "It is a very long season and we are in different physical conditions. Some of us just played last week and, after a very long season, it's a bit tough. Others haven't played for two months, but there is a great desire to show that Portuguese basketball has quality."
Aiming for Victory Against Montenegro and Greece
The captain expressed confidence ahead of the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, believing Portugal can beat Montenegro and "compete" with Greece.
"We went to Montenegro and won in November, and now they can do more and better. But we can too, and at home, in front of our fans, it might be easier."
He also highlighted the importance of public support: "I hope that this wave from the Football World Cup brings more support from the people to Matosinhos, because we want to win. Then, it's off to Greece, to try to compete against one of the greatest teams in the world, because we have already shown that we can compete against the best European teams, and try to win."
Rest and the Road to the World Cup
While admitting that more rest after the season would be ideal, Queiroz remained committed to the national team.
"After such a long season, having rest would be good. But the schedule is what it is, and it is always an honor to represent Portugal. As long as my body allows, I will do it. I'm feeling tired, but okay, with a great hunger to win."
He concluded: "The wins count for the next phase, and reaching the World Cup is our goal. Portugal has never been there, but we believe it is possible."
Coach Recognition of Fatigue
When asked whether it was good to know that the coach recognizes this fatigue, Queiroz replied: "Of course, it's always good to hear that. Coach Mário has that advantage; he knows the players well and knows that the end of the season is more complicated."
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