Portugal vs Slovenia: Battle for a Quarter-Final Spot Begins Tonight
Tonight, Portugal will kick off the knockout stage of the European Championship with a challenging last-16 match against Slovenia. Despite suffering a shocking 2-0 defeat to Georgia in their final Group F game, Portugal secured their position as group winners due to a better head-to-head record than Turkey. On the other hand, Slovenia earned their spot in the last-16 as one of the best-ranked third-placed teams from the group stage.
Slovenia enters this match riding the crest of a wave. They ended the group phase unbeaten, which is considered a major achievement in the nation’s history. However, they will be eager to go one step further and secure a spot in the quarter-finals. Their influential midfielder, Adam Gnezda Cerin, acknowledged Portugal’s talent but emphasized that Slovenia is not just here to participate. They are prepared to face Portugal and will strive to play at the highest possible level, despite the challenges Portugal poses on the pitch.
On the other hand, doubts have emerged regarding Portugal’s ability to win the tournament after their defeat against Georgia. Manager Roberto Martinez will be determined to prove the doubters wrong and ensure his team is ready for tonight’s game. Despite their recent setback, Portugal enters this match as heavy favorites against an unfancied Slovenia side.
In terms of players to watch, Portugal will welcome back Rafael Leao, who missed their last game due to two yellow cards for diving. However, five Portuguese players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, run the risk of missing the quarter-finals if they receive a yellow card tonight. Slovenia, on the other hand, would miss Jaka Bijol, Zan Celar, Petar Stojanovic, or Zan Vipotnik in the next round if any of them receive a yellow card tonight.
Slovenia will need their forward duo, Andraz Sporar and Benjamin Sesko, to step up and lead the line. Both players have started all three games so far but have yet to find the back of the net. Jan Oblak, who spent a season at Benfica in 2010, will be a formidable presence in the Slovenian defense, aiming to deny Portugal any scoring opportunities. Manager Matjaz Kek is expected to stick with his no-nonsense 4-4-2 formation, with Timi Max Elsnik and Adam Gnezda Cerin controlling the midfield.
The only likely change for Slovenia is Jure Balkovec coming in for the suspended Erik Janza at left-back. It’s worth noting that Tomi Horvat has returned to Germany after the birth of his daughter.
The winner of tonight’s clash will face either France or Belgium in the quarter-finals, adding an extra incentive for both teams. The match kicks off at 8pm BST and can be watched on BBC One, with a free live stream available on BBC iPlayer. Football fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see which team emerges victorious and takes one step closer to European glory.