Mission Accomplished Despite Disappointing Performance
Portugal women national team have secured promotion back to League A of the UEFA Womens Nations League, but the celebrations were tempered by a 3-1 defeat to Finland in their final group fixture. Head coach Francisco Neto was candid in his assessment, pointing to a lack of intensity and composure that cost his side dearly on the day.
Neto Unhappy With Performance
Speaking after the match, Neto did not hide his frustration. We were inferior to Finland, he admitted. We never managed to impose ourselves. We rarely had the ball as we usually do and we could not win our duels. We did not match their level of intensity, which makes things very difficult, especially against a team with players who compete in top European leagues.
The defeat exposed areas that Portugal must address if they are to compete effectively in League A. Finland pressed aggressively from the first whistle, disrupting the Navegadoras rhythm and forcing errors in possession. Portugal struggled to build from the back and created few clear-cut chances despite enjoying periods of territorial advantage.
VAR Debate Reignited
Neto also used the post-match platform to renew his call for VAR to be introduced across all levels of womens international football. I have spoken about this before and it is not because of what happened today, but I continue to believe it is an injustice not to have VAR in World Cup qualifying, he said. If UEFA truly wants to take the next step in developing womens football, this is an essential tool.
The absence of VAR has been a recurring talking point in womens football, with several high-profile incidents in recent tournaments highlighting the need for technological assistance. Portugals coach is among a growing number of voices advocating for change ahead of the 2027 Womens World Cup cycle.
Looking Ahead
Despite the flat finish, the campaign overall represents progress for Portuguese football. The team achieved its primary objectives: promotion to League A and a stronger seeding position for the World Cup qualifying draw scheduled for June 18. Neto acknowledged the significance of the achievement while insisting there is room for growth. We cannot look only at the negatives. The two big goals were achieved: returning to League A, where we very much want to be, and securing a better position for the draw.
Portugal will now prepare for life back in the top tier of European womens football, where they will face stronger opposition on a regular basis. The lessons from the Finland defeat, however, will need to be absorbed quickly if they are to avoid a immediate return to League B.
