Portugal Predicted Lineup for Euro 2024 Opener Against Czechia

Portugal’s quest for a second European title begins as they take on Czechia in their opening fixture on June 18. With a blend of experienced stalwarts and promising young talents, the Seleção aim to kick off their campaign on a high note. Last Word on Football brings you a Portugal predicted lineup for this crucial encounter.

Portugal Predicted Lineup vs Czechia for Euro 2024 Opener

Olá, Leipzig! 👋🛬 #PartilhaAPaixão | #EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/0MQebhrhz3

— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) June 17, 2024

How Portugal Have Lined Up Recently

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has experimented with a few different formations in the friendlies leading up to the tournament. The Iberian team played a back-3 formation in their 3-0 win against Ireland and a traditional 4-3-3 in the loss to Croatia.

Porto’s Diogo Costa is expected to start between the sticks with Ruben Dias and the experienced Pepe as the center-back partnership. Joao Cancelo’s versatility enables him to be played on either flank and Nuno Mendes or Diogo Dalot are expected to occupy the opposite side of defense.

In midfield, Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes will start ahead of a double pivot of Joao Palhinha and Joao Neves. Rafael Leao and Bernardo Silva are expected to occupy the wings, however, Diogo Jota and Joao Felix could also get the nod to start.

Spearheading the attack will be the most prolific scorer in international football history and the ever-present Cristiano Ronaldo, who will be representing his country in a record sixth European Championship.

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Portugal’s Recent Form and Tactics

Portugal enters Euro 2024 with a mixed run of form, having largely experimented with the formation and setups before the tournament.

Martínez’s strategy emphasizes high pressing and quick transitions, aiming to utilize the pace and skill of Portugal’s attacking players. The full-backs are encouraged to join the attack, providing width and creating overloads on the flanks.

This approach has yielded positive results, with the side looking cohesive and dangerous going forward.

Defensively, Portugal aims to maintain a compact shape, pressing high up the pitch to disrupt the opposition’s build-up play. The midfield trio plays a crucial role in this system, ensuring a balance between attack and defense.

Portugal Injuries to Consider

Bayern Munich defender Raphael Guerreiro and Ronaldo’s club teammate Otavio were ruled out of the tournament prior to the squad selection due to injuries. Other than that, Ronaldo and co. have no pressing injury concerns at the moment.