Everton defender Abel Xavier believes the victory against England represented a watershed in Portuguese football. Kevin Keegan's men were 2-0 up and coasting, only to go down 3-2 in a thrilling opening game.

Portugal now face Romania this evening in buoyant mood, knowing victory will almost certainly assure them of a place in the quarter-finals.

Xavier said: 'The whole team was shocked by conceding two early goals against England but we didn't drop our heads. We stayed calm and carried on playing our football. That represents a change in attitude in Portugal.

'I was not 100 per cent before the England game. But it was a wonderful victory and the way we came back made it even sweeter.

'However, that was only the first match in the tournament. We have at least two more tough games to play. The mood is good, though, and we are full of confidence. We are now respected opponents.'

Coach Humberto Coelho, a TV pundit before taking over the national team, looked relaxed on the eve of the game. 'I'm completely focused on the job in hand, and I'm enjoying myself,' he said. 'The whole of Portugal is behind us and we have a great responsibility to do well.'

Romania coach Emeric Ienei plans to man-mark Luis Figo, who was so influential in Portugal's win over England. However, striker Viorel Moldovan believes the Barcelona star is not the only player capable of causing them harm.

'There is danger also from Rui Costa and Joao Pinto,' said the Fenerbahce star. 'We can't take our eye off any of them.'

Ienei was less than impressed with England. 'They played quite naively when they were 2 -0 ahead. They shouldn't have allowed that to happen.'

He added: 'Portugal are a very well-developed team. The bulk of their players were once the best in Europe at youth level. It is the optimum moment for them.'