Felix thriving with Portugal under Jesus

Two games, two goals, two wins: Joao Felix has made a promising start under Jorge Jesus with Portugal and has been quick to acknowledge the influence of his new coach. In the two matches since the new tactician took charge, the forward scored the winner against Wales before opening the scoring in an impressive win over Norway in Oslo, both in the UEFA Nations League.

Both of Felix’s goals came from efforts from outside the box. They were not the kind of thunderous strikes that generate endless replays on social media or rip into the back of the net, but rather precise finishes, dispatched quickly and intelligently after taking on his coach’s advice.

“Don’t try to smash the ball, just make contact with it,” the forward said after Portugal’s eye-catching win in the Norwegian capital, which ended the Scandinavians’ unbeaten run at home stretching back over two years. “As the coach says, ‘Pass it into the goal.’ That’s what I did, and thankfully it went in.”

Those goals have also come as a result of one of the most significant adjustments Jesus has made as he settles into his new role. Felix stressed that he has always been a player who likes to operate in central areas, between the lines, as a second striker, arriving in the box and helping to build attacks. That is exactly what has happened in the first two games.

“He understands football, first and foremost, and secondly, the tactics he uses suit my position. That’s where I was able to have the biggest impact and help the team most,” said the Al-Nassr player, who worked with Jesus at the Saudi club last season. The result? He scored 20 goals in 33 Saudi Pro League appearances, as well as four in ten AFC Champions League Elite matches.

“Has it changed my career? Yes,” added Felix. “In recent years, I’ve been forced to play from the left and cut inside, or from the right... Last year, he put me in my position and everyone saw what I can offer. Let’s hope this year will be the same. Hopefully things go well and everyone can see the real me.”

Portugal’s organisation on the pitch also naturally benefits its more advanced players. Against Norway, particularly during an exciting first half, Seleção das Quinas were not content simply to defend against a prolific attack. “If everyone pulls in the same direction, we are without doubt a very strong team,” said Felix. “We are organised, both in attack and in defence, and when that is the case, we are always closer to winning.

“What you can expect is attacking football, pressing, not giving the opposition a moment’s rest, creating chances. We only scored one today, but in the next games, if we continue like this, I’m sure we will score more.”

Jesus also made clear just how much faith he has in Felix. “I know him very well,” he said after Portugal’s win in his first match in charge. “Today [against Wales], even though he was tired, I kept him on the pitch because I thought he might produce something different. He is a special player.”

The dialogue between coach and player reflects how this new chapter for Portugal is being shaped by attacking ideas and a desire to make the most of Felix’s individual qualities. By putting him in his preferred position, Jesus is giving the forward the opportunity to showcase his full potential.

“I’m happy to be in good form and for things to be going well,” said Felix. “Hopefully, from here on, they will get even better.”