Portugal vs Czech Republic Predictions

Perfect start for Portugal in Leipzig

A disappointing title defence saw 2016 winners Portugal bow out at the round of 16 stage at Euro 2020 but, in Roberto Martinez’s first major tournament in charge, Portugal will be expected to get off to a winning start when they take on the Czech Republic.

Lusos were the stars of qualification in the group stages with a perfect 10 wins from 10 matches in Group J, while they also had both the strongest attack (36 goals scored) and defence (two goals conceded).

A total of 11 different players found their way onto the scoresheet for Portugal en route to the finals in Germany, with the unsurprising leader being talismanic captain and striker Cristiano Ronaldo – whose tally of 10 was only bettered by Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku.

The Czech Republic have a difficult task ahead of them if they are to start off Euro 2024 without defeat, particularly given that their last victory over Portugal came back in the 1996 edition of the competition where a wonder strike from Karel Poborsky helped claim a 1-0 victory to the quarter-finals as the Czech’s made a shock run to the final.

Ivan Hasek’s men missed on top spot in Group E on goal difference to Albania in qualifying but their recent performances in European Championships have been far more indifferent, with the Czech’s alternating between group stage and quarter-final exits in each of the last four tournaments.

Given that Portugal are one of the favourites to claim glory in this year’s edition alongside France and England, they will be expected to start off with victory and their strong defensive performances should see Lusos come away unscathed.

Ronaldo can extend Euro’s record

Roberto Martinez has a great deal of depth to call upon should his side require goals, with the likes of Joao Feliz, Rafael Leao and Goncalo Ramos all capable of leading by example up top.

However, 39-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo will be the expected starter and he will be looking to not only lead his nation to a second ever continental title but also to extend his impressive goalscoring record at the Euros.

Ronaldo has 14 goals at the finals of this tournament – more than any other player – while the 10 he scored in qualifying also extended his current unbeaten record of 41. Expect the five-time Ballon D’Or winner to be amongst the goals in Leipzig and guide his side to victory, with a 2-0 scoreline looking a tempting prospect.