Elvis Evora is confident Portugal can challenge Europe's top teams after helping his country qualify for the EuroBasket for the first time since 1951.

The 2.05m center played a starring role as Valentyn Melnychuk's men secured a place in next year's tournament by finishing top of Group B with an amazing four victories and just two defeats.

		“	At the beginning, the critics said that we were the weakest team of the group, but we proved them wrong.	„
		Elvis Evora

"At the beginning, the critics said that we were the weakest team of the group, but we proved them wrong," Evora told PA Sport.

"Now we just need to remain as confident as we've been so far. Facing the best teams in Europe will be another challenge. We are as good as they are."

It was clear from the opening minutes of Saturday's 69-49 win over Israel that it was to be Evora's day.

He began the game in seemingly nervous fashion, committing a turnover with a minute on the clock and with the score still blank.

But, two minutes later, Evora got Portugal off the mark with a powerful dunk.

That was the start of a 27-point haul for Evora, who also added nine rebounds.

At the end of the first quarter, Evora had already managed eight points and four rebounds, with the teams tied at 18-18.

"The difference is that in this game I was very focused to win it," he said.

"We were desperate to win and everything went fine." 

However, Evora does not believe it was the best performance he has ever produced on the court.

"No, I can't say that this was the game of my life," he said.

"It was a great game for me, nothing else. My colleagues are responsible for all this."

Evora sealed the triumph for the Portuguese with a rare late three pointer, and was touched to then hear the Israelis hail his side's achievement.

He said: "It was fantastic to hear from the Israeli players that, due to our performances throughout the qualifying campaign, we were the team that deserved to get through.

"It made me emotional," Evora added. 

Evora, who has been without a club for the past two months, is not rushing into a decision over his future.

"Since Saturday I've received half a dozen offers from Portuguese clubs," he revealed.

"I haven't decided yet. I have to discuss with my agent."