Portugal heads into Euro 2024 brimming with attacking talent and midfield maestros, but questions linger about their defensive setup, particularly the central defensive partnership. With veteran Pepe and established star Rúben Dias seemingly certainties, the spotlight turns to the battle for the remaining center-back spot: Is António Silva In The Portugal Euro 2024 Starting Lineup a realistic prospect? This article delves into Portugal’s defensive options, assesses António Silva’s chances, and explores how Roberto Martínez might configure his backline for the tournament.
Roberto Martinez faces key decisions in Portugal’s defensive lineup for Euro 2024 (Damjan Zibert/Getty Images)
António Silva: The Rising Star
António Silva has rapidly emerged as one of Portugal’s brightest defensive talents. At just 20 years old, the Benfica center-back has already garnered significant attention for his composure, aerial prowess, and reading of the game. His performances for Benfica have been consistently impressive, leading to his inclusion in the national team setup. Silva’s youth and potential represent a fresh dynamic in the Portuguese defense, offering a blend of athleticism and modern defensive skills.
However, his relatively limited international experience is a factor to consider. While he has been capped by Portugal, he is still in the early stages of his international career. Euro 2024 would be a major platform, and the pressure of a major tournament is a different beast compared to club football.
The Defensive Landscape: Veterans and Contenders
Portugal’s defensive ranks are filled with experience and quality. Rúben Dias of Manchester City is the undisputed leader and a guaranteed starter. His Premier League pedigree and commanding presence make him indispensable. Alongside him, the legendary Pepe, at an astonishing 41 years old, remains in contention. Pepe’s experience and leadership are invaluable, even if his age raises questions about his stamina across a demanding tournament.
Gonçalo Inácio, another Sporting Lisbon center-back, is also vying for a starting role. Inácio, 22, offers a similar profile to Silva – young, talented, and comfortable on the ball. He has also featured in Martínez’s plans during qualification, indicating he is a serious contender. Danilo Pereira, primarily a midfielder for PSG but capable of playing in defense, adds further depth and tactical flexibility.
The competition for places is fierce, and Martínez has rotated his center-backs during the qualifying campaign, suggesting he is still evaluating his best combination. This leaves the door open for António Silva to stake his claim.
Tactical Considerations and Potential Lineups
Martínez has experimented with different formations, including 3-4-3, 4-2-3-1, and 4-4-2. Regardless of the system, the central defense’s solidity will be crucial for Portugal’s success.
If Martínez opts for a four-man defense, the most likely scenario sees Rúben Dias as one center-back. The question then becomes who partners him. Pepe’s experience could be favored for crucial knockout games, but his age might limit his ability to play consistently throughout the tournament. This could open the door for a younger, more agile partner for Dias.
António Silva and Gonçalo Inácio both fit this profile. Silva’s slightly more robust defensive style might give him a marginal edge in Martínez’s eyes, especially if the coach prioritizes pure defensive capabilities alongside Dias’s all-around game. Inácio’s ball-playing skills are also valuable, making him a strong alternative if Martínez prioritizes build-up play from the back.
It’s also conceivable that Martínez could deploy a three-man defense in certain matches, potentially accommodating both Silva and Inácio alongside Dias or Pepe. This would provide extra defensive security and allow the wing-backs to push higher up the pitch, maximizing Portugal’s attacking width.
Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes provide attacking flair, but defensive stability is key for Portugal’s Euro 2024 ambitions (Sebastian Frej/Getty Images)
Expert Opinions and Predictions
While official lineups remain under wraps until closer to the tournament, football analysts are divided on Portugal’s defensive choices. Some believe Pepe’s experience will be crucial, especially in guiding a relatively young squad through the pressures of Euro 2024. Others argue that the pace and energy of Silva or Inácio are better suited to complement Dias’s athleticism and ensure defensive agility against fast-paced attacks.
The friendly matches leading up to Euro 2024 will provide further clues. Martínez’s team selections and tactical approaches in these games will offer a clearer indication of his preferred defensive pairing and whether António Silva is in the Portugal Euro 2024 starting lineup in his plans.
Conclusion: Silva’s Starting Chances
Is António Silva in the Portugal Euro 2024 starting lineup? The answer is not definitive, but the potential is certainly there. Silva is a gifted young defender with the attributes to thrive at the highest level. His main competition comes from Pepe and Inácio, each offering different qualities and experience levels.
Ultimately, Roberto Martínez’s tactical preferences and the form of the players in the lead-up to the tournament will determine the final defensive composition. António Silva has a genuine chance to break into the starting XI, and his inclusion would represent a bold statement about Portugal’s faith in youth and their vision for the future. Regardless of whether he starts every game, António Silva is undoubtedly a key part of Portugal’s Euro 2024 squad and a player to watch closely throughout the tournament.
