Portugal FC are looking to prove might, as they face Slovenia FC for their Round-Of-16 meeting, with both squads eyeing the next round. Heading into this match, these two squads have different campaign in their group stage. Portugal are their group’s winners, earning six points in their campaign, despite their rough start. Moreover, looking at Portugal‘s squad, this team have so much potential, which is what they want to prove here. Meanwhile, Slovenia are at the third of their group, earning just three points in their campaign. Slovenia are fortunate enough to qualify here, but they can no longer afford to remain winless in this match. The meeting between these two teams is on July 2, 2024, at 3:00 AM (GMT+8).
Portugal FC
Portugal’s Group F win against Georgia was marred by a historic giant-killing, with Georgia scoring in either half. Benfica’s Antonio Silva made two errors, and a late fightback failed. Portugal’s head coach Roberto Martinez rested several players, including Bruno Fernandes, Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva, and Pepe. The loss marks Portugal’s third loss since exiting the 2022 World Cup to Morocco, ending a run of 12 consecutive competitive victories. Despite this, Portugal has not lost back-to-back competitive games since Euro 2008, and they are expected to recover quickly. Portugal is still favourites to progress into the tougher half of the draw, but they have lost three of four knockout games at the Euros or World Cup since 2016.
Roberto Martinez will recall key players for Monday’s game, including Bernardo Silva, Joao Cancelo, and Vitinha. Joao Palhinha, Diogo Costa, and Cristiano Ronaldo were retained against Georgia, but Ronaldo has not scored in seven tournament appearances. Rafael Leao could start on Selecao’s left wing, while Diogo Jota and Francisco Conceicao are in contention. Five Portuguese players would miss out on the quarter-finals if booked again.
Slovenia FC
Slovenia will face the Selecao for the second time in a major tournament, making their debut at the elimination phase. They have played 25 times following the group phase and are now making their debut at the elimination phase. Matjaz Kek’s side has a goalless draw against England in their final Group C game, extending their unbeaten streak to nine matches. They have previously drawn with Denmark and Serbia, averaging three points, placing them third. Slovenia has averaged just 32% possession at Euro 2024, but they can use a solid squad with captain Jan Oblak and young striker Benjamin Sesko. The underdogs can pose a threat to one of the favorites for overall victory, as they have not scored before Tuesday’s stalemate in Cologne since a 2-0 loss to Finland 14 games ago.
Slovenia faces Benfica in the next round, without Jaka Bijol, Zan Celar, Petar Stojanovic, or Zan Vipotnik if any receive another yellow card. They will rely on former Primeira Liga star Andraz Sporar and Benjamin Sesko for forwards. Goalkeeper Jan Oblak will face familiar faces. Matjaz Kek’s 4-4-2 formation is expected, with Jure Balkovec replacing Erik Janza at left-back.
Prediction:
Portugal FC (2.0)
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