Portuguese legend Rui Costa backs Ronaldo & Co for glory

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Rui Costa was a member of Portugal's golden generation, their Under-20 teams who won the World Youth Cup in 1989 and 1991.

Rui Costa believes Cristiano Ronaldo can take Portugal to Euro glory

The former Fiorentina, Benfica and AC Milan midfielder, who starred in the 1991 side, won the last of his 94 caps when hosts Portugal were stunned by Greece in the 2004 Euro Final in Lisbon.

However, he reckons the current crop can go all the way this time to make up for that shock upset four years ago.

'Portugal look very strong. If they turn their individual talent into a strong team ethic, I think they will be one of the best in Europe,' said Rui Costa.

'We began to be strong at senior level in 1996, becoming more consistent in major finals, better prepared and more respected.

'There was a change of mentality,' the 36-year-old, who retired as a player last month and is now Benfica's sporting director, added on Saturday after Portugal began their Euro campaign with a 2-0 win over Turkey in Group A in Geneva.

'Carlos Queiroz was responsible for getting that process underway. His work was very good with young players and that's how Nuno Gomes, Ricardo Quaresma, Simao Sabrosa and Cristiano Ronaldo have come through.

'Now, under Luiz Felipe Scolari, the national team are doing a marvellous job. But it's important for the players to think as a team, not as individuals.'

Rui Costa believes they can do that if Ronaldo maintains the form that has made him the most feared player in Europe this season, scoring 42 goals for Manchester United and winning the English Player of the Year award for the second time in a row.

'Ronaldo is totally concentrated on the tournament. He is in a good frame of mind after enjoying a fantastic season. I think he is the best in the world and he will be keen to live up to the huge expectations that are placed on him.'

Portugal looked impressive against the Turks, winning thanks to superb second half goals from Pepe and Raul Meireles.