Munich: Portugal will fancy their chances to progress through to the next round when they meet Germany in Group F at the Allianz Arena on Saturday(June 19). The defending European champions will come into this game having topped the group after a 3-0 victory over Hungary in first game while Germany will look to deny another early exit after an Mats Hummels own goal lead them to a horrendous 1-0 loss against France in the first game.
Cristiano Ronaldo despite not having the best of the afternoon in the last game proved decisive as his two goals late in the game secured the three points for his side while becoming the top goalscorer of all time in history of the tournament. Fernando Santos’ men had a hard time breaking down the opposing defence last time but will fancy their chances on Saturday’s game considering the quality and depth they have in their tank.
Renato Sanches and Rafa Silva who came on as substitutes actually changed the game for the side. Coach Santos might go for Joao Moutinho in place of either Danilo or William Carvalho while Joao Felix might also feature in the lineup, considering his ability in the final third.
For Germany, it will be a test of their grit and character as they are to battle it for their existence in the tournament. They already experienced an early exit three years ago in the World Cup and will hope to deny the same this time. However, Joachim Low’s men have a tough task on their hand. Their side was exposed badly by France in the first.
French full-back Lucas Hernandez slammed the door for Joshua Kimmich who’s crossing is vital to create goalscoring opportunities. Besides Kai Havertz, none of the attacking players looked to have found their rhythm. The good news for them, Leon Goretzka is available for the game and will possibly feature in place of Iker Gundogan.
In the other game of the group, Hungary will again have to perform to their absolute limit as they host World Champions France at the Ferenc Puskás Stadium in Budapest. Marco Rossi’s men showed great character holding Portugal off in the majority of the game before an own goal completely shattered their spirit.
They are underdogs in this group of death having an uphill task in all three games. Ádám Szalai, Dominik Szoboszlai and goalkeeper Péter Gulácsi will be the key players as they are likely to stick to the same tactics as they had in the last game.
France, despite their slender final scoreline, looked completely in control of the game. Coach Didier Deschamps has the most formidable squad in terms of depth and quality in the world. The silky and powerful Paul Pogba was in full song in the last game, spraying passes with such quality to which the Germans had no answers.
The two goals which were cancelled out for offside were created from the feet of France No.6 sending a firm message to his critics. N’golo Kante did his usual job and went under the radar surprisingly while full-back Lucas Hernandez was also instrumental. However, they will have to work hard against the stubborn Hungarian defence at their home.
In another game, Spain will look to find their feet as they host Poland in Group E at Estadio La Cartuja de Sevilla in Seville. Luis Enrique’s side had played out a draw against Sweden on a mute scoreline despite dominating possession but creating relatively few clear cut chances. Poland on the other hand suffered a 2-1 loss in the hands of Slovakia in which Grzegorz Krychowiak was sent off.
For Spain, Thiago Alcantara might get in the starting XI while it will be interesting to see if Alvaro Morata gets his start again after a disappointing display. Although Gerard Moreno of Villarreal offers an alternative for “La Roja” but he is that sort of a striker who prefers playing off the shoulder of the last man and not engages much in the build up which is not an ideal fit for the side’s patient style of play. For Poland, Robert Lewandowski will again be the man to go for, if they want to give themselves an edge over the Spanish side.
