MARIENFELD, Germany _ Portugal's so-called "golden generation" is being replaced by a new batch of talented players.

Tiago is one of the batch of young Portuguese players that has won acclaim at club level and is now gaining international experience at the World Cup.

Despite starting in only one of Portugal's qualifying games and never coming off the bench at the 2004 European Championship, the 25-year-old Lyon midfielder was first choice in Portugal's Group D opener against Angola.

"I won't say I wasn't a bit surprised. I was definitely overjoyed, though," Tiago said Thursday. "It was a bit nerve-racking. We were all feeling nervous before the first game."

Portugal won Tiago's 23rd appearance 1-0 against the World Cup newcomer but failed to produce its usual slick passing game.

"I didn't play great but I wasn't too bad. I can do better," Tiago said.

Portugal meets Iran on Saturday, though with playmaker Deco expected to recover from the injury that kept him out of the opener Tiago could shift back to second choice.

Even so, his versatility as both a defensive and attacking midfielder make him an obvious backup.

And with his direct rivals Francisco Costinha and Maniche lacking match fitness, he could yet make his bid in Germany for a permanent place.

"I'm ready for anything. But I don't know if I'll be playing against Iran. Our midfield options are very strong," Tiago said.

Luis Figo is the only member of the golden generation still playing international soccer. The others, including former AC Milan midfielder Rui Costa, have retired.

Portugal's Brazilian coach Luiz Felipe Scolari is nurturing new talent for the national team.

Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchester United's 21-year-old winger, steals the limelight with his dazzling ball tricks.

Hugo Viana and Helder Postiga are other players in their early 20s getting special attention from Scolari.

Tiago is dependable and workmanlike. The tall, slim midfielder drew attention at Benfica but made his mark after his transfer two years ago to Chelsea.

After a year in which he won the English title at Stamford Bridge, he moved to French club Lyon where he plays alongside Brazil's Juninho. He scored seven goals last season to help the team to a record fifth straight French title.