Portugal vs France | Friday 5 June | Volksparkstadion | 21:00
Portugal and France face off in a high stakes match at Volksparkstadion. Both teams have showcased their prowess throughout the tournament, and this clash promises to be a thrilling encounter. The anticipation is high as fans eagerly await to see which side will come out on top.
To Win (90 min)
Portugal 43/20
Draw 2/1
France 27/20
Portugal
Portugal held their nerve to prevail in a dramatic penalty shootout against Slovenia, setting up a quarter-final clash with France. Cristiano Ronaldo experienced a roller-coaster of emotions, missing a crucial penalty in the 115th minute only to redeem himself by scoring in the shootout.
Diogo Costa was the hero for Portugal, making three crucial saves during the shootout, after having a relatively quiet 120 minutes. One pivotal save came in the 115th minute to deny Slovenia’s Benjamin Sesko, which kept Portugal’s hopes alive. Costa’s heroics made him the first goalkeeper to save three penalties in a UEFA European Championship shootout and the first to concede zero goals in a Euro shootout.
Veteran Pepe also made history, becoming the oldest player to appear in a knockout stage match in major tournaments at 41 years and 126 days. Portugal’s determination and resilience were on full display, and they now turn their focus to overcoming France.
France
France secured their spot in the last eight of Euro 2024 with a decisive victory over Belgium in Dusseldorf. Didier Deschamps’s side dominated possession and showed impressive defensive discipline. Despite numerous attempts on goal, it wasn’t until the 85th minute that they broke the deadlock.
Theo Hernandez, cutting in from the left, found Jules Kounde, who combined with N’Golo Kante to set up substitute Randal Kolo Muani. Muani’s shot deflected off Jan Vertonghen and looped over Koen Casteels, securing the win.
France’s relentless pressure and tactical flexibility were key to their success. Although they missed several chances, their persistence paid off. With this victory, France demonstrated their depth and resilience, setting the stage for a thrilling quarter-final against Portugal.
Prediction: France Win (7/20)
France’s solid defence and tactical discipline give them the edge in this encounter. Despite Portugal’s attacking prowess, France’s organized backline and ability to capitalize on counterattacks could be the deciding factors. Expect a tightly contested match, but France’s tactical unity should outdo the quality in the opposition.
Written by Joshua Gaillard