France and Portugal will renew their European Championship rivalry as they clash today in the second quarter-final game.
This is France’s sixth quarter-final in their last seven major tournaments despite not one of their players scoring a goal in open play. Les Bleus have netted only three times in four games, one a penalty by Mbappe and the other two from own goals.
Despite their illustrious squad and a stellar track record, France have faced a few stumbles in the group stage of their Euro 2024 campaign.
Portugal on the other hand made history in the process by reaching a record-extending seventh Euros quarter-final, with Diogo Costa becoming the first goalkeeper to save three penalties in a Euros shootout.
Portugal came from behind to beat the Czech Republic 2-1 in their first match and then outclassed Turkey in a 3-0 victory. However, they lost 2-0 to Georgia with a much-changed team in their last group outing.
Again, Portugal will be cautious of the French challenge, as they have lost 11 of the last 14 head-to-heads.
Historically, encounters between these two giants have produced memorable moments. France will remember their heartbreaking loss to Portugal in the Euro 2016 final, while Portugal will be wary of France’s formidable lineup as both managers are known for their strategic acumen.
As the clock ticks and anticipation reaches its fever pitch, football fans around the world are in for a treat as these two titans of European football clash in what promises to be an unforgettable encounter.
