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The controversial decision by Luiz Felipe Scolari not to include goalkeeper Vitor Baia in the Portuguese national team lineup was an unpleasant surprise for Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas.
"Baia was constantly pointed out to young goalkeepers as an example when he played for [Porto]," Casillas told journalists on Thursday. "I constantly watched him."
"I was very surprised when I found out that he wouldn't be here at Euro 2004, but it's the Portuguese national team coach's job to consider Vitor Baia's possibilities."
"In my opinion, he deserved to be here, but the decision is made by the coach."
Baia has been guarding the goal excellently throughout the season in Portugal and contributed significantly to the victory in the Champions League.
Scolari faced considerable pressure regarding the player's inclusion in the lineup, but the Brazilian, who ignored similar demands to bring Romario back to the Brazilian national team before the 2002 World Cup, once again maintained his style.
