Goalkeeper Ricardo has hailed Luiz Felipe Scolari as the best coach in the world, after he guided Portugal into the World Cup semi-finals at the expense of England.

Brazilian Scolari helped his homeland win the World Cup four years ago, before taking charge of Portugal and helping the hosts reach the final of Euro 2004.

Now he has taken Ricardo and co to the last four in Germany, with the Sporting Lisbon custodian saying: "Every ship needs a captain and ours is Scolari.

"As head of our team he has transmitted to us his experience and knowledge and that has been crucial. He has managed to blend quality and team spirit.

"It's like a family. Scolari has a big heart, but when he has to lay down the law he does and people work. We have learned a lot this way.

"The boss at this time is one of the best in the world, or even the best.

"He is a reigning world champion and now he could even repeat the feat."