Portugal have been handed one of the best games in the Last 16 as they face Slovenia in Frankfurt on Monday night.
Having won their first two games of the tournament and topped their group, Georgia’s surprise loss could dampen expectations. The 2-0 defeat was technically the biggest upset in Euro history by FIFA standards, although Roberto Martinez made major changes to his first team as they closed out the group stage.
The former Belgium manager will recall some of his key starters for the match against Slovenia, including the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva. With a squad as deep as it is talented, Martinez has plenty of options if he wishes to dunk, with captain Cristiano Ronaldo having been criticized for his subpar performances.
Here’s how Portugal could face Slovenia on Monday.
GK: Diogo Costa – The Porto goalkeeper has long been the subject of interest from Europe’s top clubs and they will be loving what he has seen so far at Euro 2024. He hasn’t been the busiest stopper in the tournament, but he has been patient when called upon.
RB: Joao Cancelo – Portugal have never been in Germany and will never have Cancelo and Nuno Mendes as defenders. However, the advantage of boasting an attacking duo comes in the final third.
CB: Ruben Dias – Although he has been overshadowed by his centre-back partner so far, Dias has been as composed and determined as ever at the back. There aren’t many better defenders at Euro 2024.
CB: Pepe – The 41-year-old was unusual in Germany, and not just because of his age. The Porto defender studies the game the wrong way and still boasts the ferocity that made him such a special talent.
LB: Nuno Mendes – The Paris Saint-Germain defender had a huge impact against Czechia and will keep Slovenia at bay in their own half as he bombards up and down the pitch.
DM: Vitinha – Arguably Portugal’s best player at the tournament, Vitinha continued his excellent form in 2023/24 in Germany. Linking attack and defense, the diminutive midfielder compliments Joao Palhinha well with a double pivot.
DM: Joao Palhinha – A key influence in Portugal, the Fulham midfielder actually managed to complete 90 minutes in Germany. Against strong opponents, his ability to break the game will be important in the playoffs.
RM: Bernardo Silva – Having now scored his first major league goal, Silva will be keen to add to his tally. With Slovenia’s first-choice left-back Erik Janza suspended, he could find joy on the right-hand side. No Portuguese player created any other chances in the group stage.
AM: Bruno Fernandes – Operating in the number ten role, Slovenia will have to keep a close eye on Fernandes. Great creator, they can’t give him too much space in the penalty area.
LM: Rafael Leao – Now back from suspension, with two yellow cards for diving to his name, Leao should return to the starting XI. He has been working hard in Germany and has the likes of Pedro Neto and Diogo Jota fighting for his place.
ST: Cristiano Ronaldo – Martinez’s biggest question involves Ronaldo. The captain should be replaced based on performance, but it seems like a big gamble – and one Martinez probably won’t take. However, you need to improve, and quickly.
READ THE LATEST EURO 2024 NEWS, PREVIEWS AND PLAYER RATINGS
Source link
