Portugal women’s national football coach Francisco Neto asserts that consistently facing top-ranked global teams is crucial for his squad’s ongoing development, even as he demands improved consistency from his players.
Neto stated that playing against elite nations, such as the Netherlands and Brazil this week, is the only way for Portugal to reach a higher competitive level. He emphasized that opting for easier opponents would hinder their progress.
This strategic approach recently saw Portugal achieve a significant 2-1 away victory in October against the Olympic champion United States, a result Neto described as “very important” and “a very positive energy ‘boost’.”
Despite such landmark wins, Neto acknowledged his team’s overall record “is not wonderful” and urged them to be more consistent. Portugal has secured only one win in its last 10 matches across friendlies, Nations League, and European Championship fixtures.
“We don’t hide behind things, we have to want to be better and we work for that,” Neto told reporters at a press conference on Thursday. He noted that the dominant way Portugal played against the U.S. showed the right path, but they must replicate it more often.
Portugal is set to play the Netherlands, ranked 11th in FIFA’s women’s rankings, in a friendly in Braga on Friday. They will then face seventh-ranked Brazil in Aveiro next Tuesday.
Historically, Portugal has a challenging record against the Dutch, with eight losses and just one win in nine previous encounters, dating back to a 2001 World Cup qualifier. Neto wants his team to “create problems” for their opponents.
These matches form part of Portugal’s preparation for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification cycle, which is scheduled to begin in March 2026.
Neto explained his coaching philosophy includes adapting training priorities based on the team’s calendar, focusing on self-improvement when time with players is limited, and on opponent analysis during longer FIFA windows.
He also highlighted the integration of several new players, noting the fresh “energy” they bring and the vital role experienced players play in their adaptation to the high level of senior international football.