Portugal vs. Slovenia: UEFA Euro 2024 Round of 16 Match Preview
Portugal is ready to face Slovenia at Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt on Monday, July 1, in the UEFA Euro 2024 Round of 16. The 2016 Euro champions are making their 9th appearance in the knockout stages.
Portugal Started their UEFA Euro 2024 campaign with a solid 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic, followed by an impressive 3-0 win against Turkey, securing the top spot in Group F. However, they stumbled in their final group match, suffering a surprising 2-0 defeat to Georgia.
Slovenia’s path to the Round of 16 was less straightforward. They draw all three of their Group C matches, finishing 3rd and advancing as one of the best 3rd-placed teams. Their Euro campaign started with a 1-1 draw against Denmark, with Erik Janza equalizing in the 77th minute. In their match against Serbia, Zan Karničnik gave them the lead in the 69th minute, but a stoppage-time goal by Luka Jovic resulted in another 1-1 draw.
Team News
Cristiano Ronaldo’s form has been under Perform, but coach Roberto Martinez is unlikely that Roberto Martinez will risk dropping international football’s record goalscorer. Martinez made several changes in the loss to Georgia, which did not pay off, so a return to the similar starting lineup from the first 2 Group F games is expected. Portugal has no injury or suspension issues but will welcome back Rafael Leao, who missed the Georgia match due to yellow card accumulation for diving.
Slovenia will be playing without full-back Erik Janza, who is suspended after receiving a 2nd yellow card in the tournament against England. Jure Balkovec is expected to replace him in defense. Slovenia’s attack has been lackluster, with both of their goals coming from defenders. Much is expected from Benjamin Sesko, who has yet to make a significant impact at UEFA Euro 2024.
Predicted Portugal Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Diogo Costa, Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Pepe, Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, Joao Palhinha, Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leao, Cristiano Ronaldo
Predicted Slovenia Lineup (4-4-2):
Jan Oblak, Zan Karničnik, David Drkusic, Jaka Bijol, Jure Balkovec, Petar Stojanovic, Adam Gnezda Cerin, Aljaz Elsnik, Mitja Lotric, Andraz Sporar, Benjamin Sesko
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