Paris: Portugal are celebrating their first-ever title after shocking Euro 2016 hosts France, leaving coach Fernando Santos proud of the strength and unity shown in triumphing without talisman Cristiano Ronaldo.

Portugal manager Fernando Santos is hoisted in the air by his players. Pic/AFP

"I've always said we're a team," coach Santos said, having been applauded into the press conference. "I never hide my thoughts — I always tell my players what's on my mind.

"I've always told them we've got great talent but we need to fight more than our opponents, run more than them and be more concentrated than them.

"We have an amazing group. They've always believed what I told them: that we could win this."

Portugal's captain and talisman may not have been on the field, but still acted as an inspiration to his teammates on a historic night.

"Our skipper put in an immense effort," Santos said. "He has amazing team spirit. "Twice he tried to get back on the pitch but him being there in the dressing room and on the bench was very important for us. He believed — just like myself — that tonight was our night."