Now the Portuguese-Swiss are talking
“It will be a football treat!”
Who are the Swiss-Portuguese dual citizens Ferreira, da Costa and Goncalves keeping their fingers crossed for?
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The Portuguese-Swiss Neslon Ferreira played for FC Thun for years.
Switzerland or Portugal? The ex-professionals and dual citizens Ferreira, da Costa and Goncalves are in a fan dilemma.
Jose Goncalves (37)
«I discovered my love for football in Portugal when my dad took me to a game between Benfica and Sporting Lisbon. The fact that Portugal of all places meets Switzerland is special. I support both. Unfortunately, now that they are playing against each other, I have to make a decision. Deep down, I’m a little bit more pro-Portugal. I think this team has huge potential and with a bit of competitive luck could even become world champions. But the Nati will be a tough one. The Swiss show solidarity and walk a lot. They also have a Xhaka in world-class form, a Shaqiri that can make the difference and an Embolo that poses a problem for any defence. I look forward to the game!
Born in Lisbon, grew up in Lausanne, has played for Thun, St.Gallen, Sion, in Scotland, the USA, Italy, Germany and India, among others.
David DaCosta (36)
“I would have loved to avoid this duel. I was born in Zurich, grew up in Zurich. I know a lot of national players and the coach very well. But I have Portuguese roots, Portuguese blood. To be honest, I’m in a bit of a dilemma. So far I have been able to support both countries, but that is no longer possible. I might let our kids decide and see what shirt they wear for the game. Recently, however, they have often worn the Portugal shirt. In terms of sport, it will be a pleasure to play football, there are top players on both sides. »
Son of Portuguese immigrants, born in Zurich. Played for FC Zurich, Thun, Schaffhausen and Novara Calcio in Italy, among others.
Nelson Ferreira (40)
“The duel is pretty special. My parents came to Switzerland in 1985, first worked in gastronomy and then in a food factory. My brother and I came later and lived with our grandparents in a small village near Braga until I was eight years old. I was hoping that Switzerland would score a fourth goal against Serbia, then Portugal wouldn’t have been waiting in the round of 16. I watch the game with my wife and children in the Bernese Oberland. My parents are back home after retirement and are rooting for me there. I hope for a 1:1 and then the penalty lottery should decide.”
Only played for two teams in his 18-year professional career, 14 years for Thun and 4 years for Lucerne. Now he is talent manager at FC Thun.