Sabasports Match Preview
Euro 2024: Portugal vs France
Kickoff Time: 2024-07-06 03:00 (HKT)
Source: REUTERS/Carmen Jaspersen
In the Round of 16, Portugal defeated Slovenia 3-0 in a penalty shootout and advanced to the quarterfinals. From a tactical perspective, Portugal’s strength lies in their skilled players. Players like Vitinha, Joao Palhinha, Nuno Mendes, and Joao Cancelo are able to work together to overcome the opponent’s high-pressure defense. This allows Portugal to calmly handle the pressure and launch direct attacks on the opponent’s defensive line. Additionally, Portugal have a diverse offensive approach with clear roles assigned to the players on the wings. Rafael Leao and Nuno Mendes dominate the left wing with an impact style of play, while Bernardo Silva and Cancelo control the right wing with a more measured approach. However, Portugal’s biggest weakness is their lack of a clinical finisher, and Cristiano Ronaldo, as their top scorer and tactical core, bears the brunt of this criticism.
As for France, they secured a 1-0 victory over Belgium in the Round of 16, smoothly advancing to the quarterfinals. While their tactics appear to be more offensive-oriented on paper, France have displayed a cautious approach in previous matches. They often force their opponents to defend by maintaining possession. In the previous four games, France only conceded one goal, which was a penalty kick. Their defense has been nearly impenetrable. On the offensive end, France’s game plan largely revolves around Kylian Mbappe. They have a number of skilled passers behind him to ensure fluid ball movement. A strong center forward occupies the central defenders, creating space, while assisting full-backs help dilute the defensive pressure. Marcus Thuram and Randal Kolo Muani have also shown their ability to contribute independently. Thuram can directly replace Olivier Giroud as the main center forward, and Kolo Muani can rotate between the wings and even appear at the top of the formation when necessary.
Taking into account the players on both offense and defense, France clearly hold an advantage over Portugal. Furthermore, France have demonstrated greater defensive stability. It’s worth noting that Pepe, at 41 years old, and Ronaldo, at 39 years old, have been continuously starting in intense and tightly scheduled matches, and their physical condition is declining rapidly. Against aging Portugal, France’s more dynamic style will undoubtedly give them a better chance of winning.
Portugal’s Last 5 Games: DLWWW
24-07-02 Portugal 0-0 Slovenia (PEN 3-0)
24-06-27 Georgia 2-0 Portugal
24-06-23 Turkey 0-3 Turkey
24-06-19 Portugal 2-1 Czechia
24-06-12 Portugal 3-0 Ireland
France’s Last 5 Games: WDDWD
24-07-02 France 1-0 Belgium
24-06-26 France 1-1 Poland
24-06-22 Netherlands 0-0 France
24-06-18 Austria 0-1 France
24-06-10 France 0-0 Canada
Head To Head Record:
21-06-24 Portugal 2-2 France
20-11-15 Portugal 0-1 France
20-10-12 France 0-0 Portugal
16-07-11 Portugal 0-0 France (AET 1-0)
15-09-05 Portugal 0-1 France
Prediction: France to win