Portugal National Football Team Name: Origins and Modern Identity

The Portugal national football team is one of the most celebrated squads in international football. Its official name, Seleção das Quinas—which translates to “The Quins Selection”—derives from the national coat‑of‑arms that features five blue shields, or “quinas.” These quinas are a historic symbol of Portuguese sovereignty and appear on the team’s crest, reinforcing the connection between sport and national identity.

Historical Roots of the Name

The term Seleção