Queiroz pays tribute to Spain

Carlos Queiroz on Tuesday paid tribute to Spain, claiming Portugal’s Iberian neighbours deserved their last 16 win in Cape Town. A second-half David Villa goal was enough to fire ‘La Roja’ into a World Cup quarterfinal against Paraguay, but in truth the 1-0 score line flattered the Portuguese – something not lost on Queiroz. "Spain had the better chances and I think, sadly, they deserved to win," admitted the Portugal coach after the Cape Town match. "Spain were much more effective moving the ball around. We were looking for chances on the counter-attack. We had our chances - we just didn't score." Queiroz however insisted his side had given their all, despite their conservative game plan. "We showed ambition and desire to win but it just wasn't possible. We'll have to come back stronger," he added.