The big game in the UEFA Euro 2024 quarterfinal between Portugal and France is almost here.
Let me tell you all about it!
Key Highlights from Portugal vs France at Euro 2024
- Portugal’s Pros and Cons: Strong in possession and defense with Ronaldo leading, but struggle with finishing and reliance on Ronaldo.
- France’s Strengths and Weaknesses: Excellent defense and tactical flexibility; however, they face scoring challenges and pressure on Mbappé.
- Predicted Tight Contest: Both teams are in good form, with France slightly favored. Match may extend to extra time or penalties.
Portugal vs France Match Details
- Competition: UEFA Euro 2024 Quarterfinal
- Date: Friday, July 5, 2024
- Kickoff: 9:00 PM CET / 3:00 PM ET
- Venue: Volksparkstadion, Hamburg, Germany
- TV Broadcast: FOX (USA)
- Live Stream: Fubo (USA)
Team News and Lineups
Portugal’s Possible Starting XI (4-3-3)
- Goalkeeper: Diogo Costa
- Defenders: João Cancelo, Pepe, Rúben Dias, Nuno Mendes
- Midfielders: Bruno Fernandes, João Palhinha, Bernardo Silva
- Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Gonçalo Ramos, Rafael Leão
France’s Possible Starting XI (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
- Defenders: Jules Koundé, Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba, Theo Hernández
- Midfielders: Aurélien Tchouaméni, Adrien Rabiot
- Attacking Midfielders: Ousmane Dembélé, Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappé
- Forward: Olivier Giroud
Portugal vs France Key Players to Watch
Portugal: Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva
France: Kylian Mbappé, Antoine Griezmann, Aurélien Tchouaméni
Portugal vs France Predictions and Recent Form
The game should be really close, maybe even going to extra time or penalties. Experts think France has a slight edge, but both teams have been in good form:
- Portugal: 2 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss
- France: Unbeaten in their last seven matches (4 wins, 3 draws)
Portugal vs France Match Preview
This game is set to be a thrilling contest between two soccer giants.
Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, will look to recreate their Euro 2016 glory.
Meanwhile, France has shown a solid defense, letting in just three goals in four games.
Portugal’s defense, especially with Pepe, is sturdy, but France’s attack, led by Kylian Mbappé, will be tough to handle.
Both teams have had trouble scoring from open play, so this game will be very strategic.
Portugal: Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Possession Play: Portugal controls the game well, with 65.3% possession.
- Defensive Experience: Veterans like Pepe and Rúben Dias offer stability.
- Midfield Creativity: Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva create many chances.
- Cristiano Ronaldo: Even without a goal, Ronaldo draws defenders and creates space for teammates.
Weaknesses
- Finishing Issues: Portugal has struggled to score, with Ronaldo missing a few big chances.
- Dependence on Ronaldo: They rely heavily on Ronaldo, which isn’t great if he’s off his game.
- Defensive Lapses: Portugal has allowed three goals, showing they can sometimes slip up.
France: Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Defensive Solidity: Conceding only one goal, their defense is very strong.
- Tactical Flexibility: Coach Didier Deschamps can change tactics based on the opponent.
- Star Power: Mbappé’s speed and Griezmann’s creativity make France dangerous.
- Unbeaten Streak: France hasn’t lost in their last seven games, showing they’re tough to beat.
Weaknesses
- Scoring Efficiency: France has trouble scoring from open play.
- Midfield Depth: Their starting midfield is strong, but they lack depth.
- Pressure on Mbappé: If Mbappé isn’t fit or is well-marked, France struggles to score.
Conclusion
So, as Portugal and France get ready to face off, both have their strengths and weaknesses.
Portugal’s good at holding onto the ball and creating chances, but they need to finish better.
France has a strong defense and star players, but they need to score more from open play.
It’s gonna be an intense match, and the team that can fix its weaknesses might just make it to the semifinals. Get ready for a fantastic game!
Also Read:
Is Cristiano Ronaldo the Star of Euro 2024? An In-Depth Look at His Role, Stats, and Future
