Sousa looks to turn over compatriots

Basel coach Paulo Sousa hopes his side will make a significant stride toward reaching the Champions League quarterfinals for the first time when it faces two-time title winner Porto in their last-16, first-leg clash on Wednesday in Basel.

Sousa, who spent four seasons as a player at Benfica and picked up 52 caps for Portugal during a glittering career as a defensive midfielder, needs to overturn a Basel record against Portuguese sides that stands at just two wins in 10 matches at home.

He also admitted he was close to joining Porto during his playing career before a potential deal fell through.