Portugal and the Czech Republic go head to head at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig, on the 18th June, at 8pm (GMT) for their first group stage encounter of EURO 2024.
Portugal vs Czech Republic Betting Tips
Portugal boasts some of the world’s best talents like Cristiano Ronaldo, Bernardo Silva, Joao Felix, Diogo Jota, and Rafael Leao, making them a formidable force, equipped to challenge any team. The Czech team has shown vulnerabilities in their defence, exemplified by a 3-0 loss to a lower-ranked team like Albania. Therefore, it’s likely that Portugal, with their blend of experience, creativity, and speed, will create countless scoring opportunities. Portugal also has a strong defence, and the Czech Republic’s lack of a standout striker, makes it unlikely that they will score. Considering Portugal’s offensive and defensive capabilities, coupled with Czech’s most likely defensive game plan and lack of a threatening attack, handicapping Portugal could be a good bet for punters, which is why we say Portugal handicap -2. Placing bets on Portugal to win in both halves or Portugal to win to nil would also be bets worth taking.
Portugal vs Czech Republic Match Prediction
Portugal is the likely winner in this match up as they posses a blend of world class talents capable of breaching even the toughest defences, as well as an impressive run in the qualifiers showcasing their readiness for this years European Championship. Moreover, Portugal’s strong defensive setup suggests they will be tough to break down, especially against an inconsistent Czech team that have yet to face a top-tier team like Portugal for quite some time. In fact, the last time these two teams went head to head was in 2022 where Portugal beat them 4-0 and just a short while before that beat them 2-0. Considering all factors, Portugal stands out as the clear favourite to win this match.
Portugal Latest Team News
As mentioned earlier, Portugal is expected to bring a highly talented and experienced squad to Germany this summer. The team will be led by Ronaldo (39), with Pepe (41) as vice-captain. The former Real Madrid teammates have amassed more than 340 international caps. However, the squad also includes several young and energetic players, including Gonçalo Inácio and Gonçalo Ramos, both aged 23 or under, and 19-year-old Benfica midfielder João Neves, who is being touted as Portugal’s next big star. While there are some questions about Portugal’s starting lineup, Diogo Costa is expected to begin as the goalkeeper, with Bernardo Silva, Fernandes, and Ronaldo forming part of their exciting frontline.
Czech Republic Latest Team News
Unlike in previous championships, the Czech Republic are devoid of household names bar Hammers duo Vladimír Coufal and Tomáš Souček, with Patrik Schick a close third. He played a role in Bayer Leverkusen winning their first Bundesliga title, and there are several ‘Big 5’ mainstays, including midfielder Antonín Barák (Fiorentina) and defender David Jurásek (Hoffenheim), but how newly-installed head coach Hašek lines his team remains to be seen. The 60-year-old tactician has taken charge of two matches, winning both friendlies against Norway (2-1) and Armenia (2-1), but even so, the prominent hitters like Schick leading their attack with Soucek wearing the captain armband.