Federation backs Scolari's appeal against ban

Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari (picture) received a vote of confidence from the country's soccer federation despite his four-match suspension by UEFA. Brazilian Scolari has apologised for lashing out at Serbian player Ivica Dragutinovic after their...

Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari (picture) received a vote of confidence from the country's soccer federation despite his four-match suspension by UEFA.

Brazilian Scolari has apologised for lashing out at Serbian player Ivica Dragutinovic after their 1-1 draw in a Euro 2008 qualifier on Sept. 12.

"He should not have acted in that way but the board of directors decided unanimously to reiterate their support to Scolari and formally support his appeal to UEFA," federation president Gilberto Madail said.

If Scolari's suspension is upheld, it could affect the team during their final qualifying matches for Euro 2008.

UEFA will hear Scolari's appeal on October 4.

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