Portugal captain Luis Figo admitted he "could wish for nothing better" after inspiring the host nation to the final of Euro 2004. Figo said: "It's a lot of pressure playing at home but if you want to play at a high level you have to bear that.
"We have fantastic young players and we have the conditions to continue to be a great team.
"We worked hard for this but we're happy because the people can enjoy it and celebrate now."
A relieved Figo added: "The important thing is the result and the team is really happy with the performance.
"Now we have to recuperate for Sunday's final."
Portugal's coach Luiz Felipe Scolari also admitted that Holland's second-half revival almost shredded his nerves.
Brazilian Scolari, who has followed his World Cup triumph with Brazil two years ago by leading Portugal into a major final, said: "We suffered a lot more than we needed to but when it's over, it's over.
"We have a very tough and competitive team and we have arrived in the final.
"I want to congratulate the team and the Portuguese people who have always believed in us."
MMIX
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The referee was a real home whistler 
