Portugal vs. France Euro 2024 Quarter-Final Showdown
Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe are set for a thrilling showdown as Portugal faces France in the UEFA Euro 2024 quarterfinals this Friday.
Despite a missed penalty in extra time against Slovenia, Portugal advanced to the quarter-finals thanks to goalkeeper Diogo Costa, who saved three penalties in the shootout. Portugal now eyes a semifinal spot, aiming to overcome their historically poor record against France.
Earlier, France narrowly defeated Belgium, with a deflected goal from Randal Kolo Muani securing their place in the last eight. Though both Ronaldo and Mbappé didn’t stand out in the Round of 16, they are eager to make their mark in this crucial encounter.
Team News
Ahead of the UEFA Euro 2024 quarterfinal against France, Portugal’s manager Roberto Martinez and the team’s physios will be monitoring the players who played 120 minutes against Slovenia.
Diogo Jota and Francisco Conceição are potential substitutes, while Bernardo Silva and Rafael Leão are expected to continue in attack.
In contrast, France faces forced changes. Adrien Rabiot is suspended due to yellow card accumulation, leading Didier Deschamps to consider replacements like Ousmane Dembélé, Eduardo Camavinga, Youssouf Fofana, or Warren Zaïre-Emery. Additionally, Kingsley Coman might miss the game for the birth of his child, potentially allowing Randal Kolo Muani to start.
Predicted Lineups
Portugal (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Diogo Costa
- Defenders: João Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Pepe, Nuno Mendes
- Midfielders: João Palhinha, Vitinha
- Attackers: Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leão
- Forward: Cristiano Ronaldo
France (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
- Defenders: Jules Koundé, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Theo Hernandez
- Midfielders: N’Golo Kanté, Aurélien Tchouaméni
- Attackers: Ousmane Dembélé, Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappé
- Forward: Randal Kolo Muani
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