This Friday’s Euro 2024 quarter-final promises a thrilling encounter between Portugal and France at Hamburg’s Volksparkstadion. The match rekindles memories of the dramatic 2016 final and features a captivating clash between Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe.
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A Tale of Two Strikers
All eyes will be on the battle between Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe. Ronaldo, despite his leadership and experience, is yet to find the net at Euro 2024. Mbappe, on the other hand, has only managed a penalty goal so far. Can either of these superstars break their drought and inspire their team to victory?
Defensive Resilience on Display
While the attack may be lacking fireworks, both defenses have been impressive. Portugal’s Diogo Costa became the hero in the penalty shootout against Slovenia, while France has conceded just one goal in their last six matches. This encounter promises to be a tight affair, with any lapse in concentration potentially proving costly.
Team News and Possible Lineups
Portugal has no major injury concerns, but France will be without midfielder Adrien Rabiot due to suspension. Ousmane Dembele, Eduardo Camavinga, Youssouf Fofana, or Warren Zaire-Emery could fill the void depending on Didier Deschamps’ tactical approach. Kingsley Coman is also a potential absentee for Les Bleus.
Here are the possible starting lineups:
- Portugal: Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Pepe, Mendes; Palhinha, Vitinha; Silva, Fernandes, Leao; Ronaldo
- France: Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernandez; Kante, Tchouameni; Dembele, Griezmann, Mbappe; Kolo Muani
Prediction: A Tight Contest with a Narrow Margin
Both teams are struggling offensively, but their defensive organization is commendable. We expect a cagey encounter with France edging it out 1-0. Whether this will be the final curtain call for Ronaldo’s European Championship career remains to be seen.