As Euro 2024 progresses, the highly anticipated quarterfinal showdown between Portugal and France promises to be a riveting contest. Both teams, considered tournament favorites, have had their fair share of struggles, particularly in their attacking departments.
Portugal’s journey to the quarterfinals has been a rollercoaster. The Selecao began with two victories but then suffered a surprising defeat to Georgia.
Their advancement to the quarterfinals was secured through a dramatic penalty shootout win over Slovenia. While Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes have managed to find the back of the net, veteran captain Cristiano Ronaldo has faced challenges in front of goal.
The 39-year-old, participating in a record sixth European Championship, missed a crucial penalty against Slovenia in extra time, leading to an emotional outburst.
Although Ronaldo converted in the subsequent shootout, his place in the lineup is under scrutiny as his goal-scoring prowess appears to be waning. Despite taking the most shots in the tournament (20), Ronaldo has not scored in his last eight Euro matches.
On the other side, France, pre-tournament favorites and two-time world champions, have also been underwhelming, failing to score from open play so far.
Kylian Mbappe, recovering from a broken nose sustained in the opener, scored a penalty against Poland, while France’s other two goals have been own goals by their opponents.
Assistant coach Guy Stephan defended Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann amidst criticism, highlighting the difficulties Mbappe faces playing with a protective mask and the fatigue from a grueling season. Stephan emphasized Griezmann’s experience and contributions, noting his 133 caps and 44 goals for France.
Both teams’ misfiring forward lines will need to spark to life if they hope to advance. The winner of this contest will face either Germany or Spain in the semifinals in Munich.
Friday’s match is also a nostalgic rematch of the Euro 2016 final, where Portugal stunned host nation France with a 1-0 victory in extra time, thanks to Eder’s goal. France will be aiming for their third European Championship title, while Portugal seeks to add to their solitary 2016 triumph.