Porto have been excluded from Europe's elite club competition for the 2007/08 season following a bribery scandal which overshadowed their recent SuperLiga conquest.

They were also hit with a six-point deduction for the scandal in which they were found guilty of trying to bribe referees during the 2003/04 campaign.

Porto have already said they will appeal and Pinto da Costa is optimistic the decision will eventually go in their favour.

He told Portuguese broadcaster SIC: "We are calm and confident that we will play in the Champions League [next season]. Actually, we were expecting this decision from UEFA.

"We do not consider ourselves out of the Champions League. We are already working on the appeal, both in Portugal and Switzerland. We are convinced that we will compete in the Champions League next season. We are sure about it."

The 71-year-old will not rest until he believes justice is done.

He added: "The 'Golden Whistle' investigation is directed at Porto and me. We will claim compensation from everyone who caused this situation."

Pinto da Costa has guided Porto to 16 national championships and two Champions League titles since taking the reins in 1978.

Guimaraes, the third-placed team in Portugal last season, will earn Champions League qualification on the back of Porto's dismissal.

Guimaraes president Emilio Macedo showed solidarity with Porto.

"It is a shame. Portugal will be losing without Porto at the Champions League," he said.

"There is not a final decision, yet, about this process. It is tough."