Portugal is as simple as a dove but as wise as a snake.

The 61-year-old coach was proud of his players' "know yourself and know your opponent" style of play in the final match against France, especially after Cristiano Ronaldo left the field.

Portugal lost their captain in the 24th minute but proved they were not a one-man team. Substitute Eder scored the only goal in the 109th minute to help Fernando Santos's side beat hosts France to win their first ever Euro title.

"I always say that we are a team. I never hide my thoughts, I always tell the players what is in my head. I always tell them that we have great talent but we need to fight more than the opponents, run more than them and concentrate more than them. We have a great team. They always believe what I say, which is: 'We can win the championship'," coach Santos revealed.

Fernando Santos and Ronaldo direct from the sidelines during extra time of the final. Photo: Reuters.

The 61-year-old strategist did not forget to thank Greece, the team he was associated with four years before leading Portugal. He was also aware of the importance of this championship for the people of his homeland and praised Cristiano Ronaldo's enthusiasm.

"It's hard to describe the emotions of the players. It was incredible. Our captain showed a great effort. He had a great team spirit. He tried to come back twice but his presence in the dressing room and on the bench was very important for us. He believed, like me, that tonight was for us," said Santos.

Criticised for his cautious and defensive approach throughout the tournament, the former Greece coach said he did not care as long as Portugal won. "We are as simple as doves but as cunning as snakes," he replied cryptically.

Portugal drew all three of their group games against Iceland, Austria and Hungary, only progressing as one of the four best third-placed teams. Santos's side played like underdogs against Croatia in the round of 16, and won thanks to Quaresma's only goal at the end of the second half of extra time, in their only dangerous attack.

In the quarter-finals, Portugal beat Poland on penalties, before defeating Wales 2-0 in the semi-finals. Ronaldo and his teammates won the championship after only winning one match in 90 minutes of official play.

According to VNE