One could expect anything from Portugal, author of three small draws in as many games against Iceland (1-1), Austria (0-0) and Hungary (3-3). Skilled on the wire with two embodiments of the huge Cristiano Ronaldo, the Lusitano proceed with caution to Lens, where is Croatia awaits them in the second round. A nation checkerboard that has just entered a new dimension by defeating the Roja (2-1), double European champion in title, to invite top of Group D. successfully won without his genius Modrić nor inevitable Mandžukić, reflecting the overall quality of the Croatian group. Designated in the TOP4 favorite under at dawn finals, men Ante Čačić feel they can go after. Defensively brittle but still able to raise their level of play in the big games, the Portuguese will they get by Bollaert.
If she did feel offensively by purchasing a lot of chances against Turkey (1-0)
, the Czech Republic (2-2) and Spain (2-1), Croatia has also shown some shortcomings in the defensive positioning.
Portugal is clearly worrying defensively but showed nice things before. Double goalscorer against Hungary (3-3), Ronaldo has regained confidence and could really hurt the Croats.
Croatia conceded at least one goal for 6 of their last 7 matches played in a European Championship.
The Portuguese scored at least one goal in 4 of their 6 games played in the finals of Euro since the 2004 edition.
Portugal is not the right formula defensively and difficult to maintain movement in the middle but can count on Ronaldo, Nani attack can make the difference at any moment. The Croatian team-block is much more interesting, but it's hard to imagine the Portuguese individualities not shake at least once in his wake. Portugal will regain its defense to access quarters but mark Lens.
