Portugal arrived at Euro 2024 with high expectations, touted as one of the early favorites to lift the trophy. Their journey through Group F initially reinforced this belief as they secured the top spot. However, recent performances, particularly their last 16 match, have introduced a dose of realism and tempered the initial optimism surrounding the Portugal Euro Squad.
Their Euro 2024 campaign began brightly with a late victory against Czech Republic, Francisco Conceicao sealing the win in the dying moments. This was followed by a dominant 3-0 display against Turkey, showcasing the attacking prowess many anticipated from Roberto Martinez’s side. Goals from Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes, combined with a Turkish own goal, secured Portugal’s progression to the knockout stages with a game to spare.
Portugal Euro 2024 squad Roberto Martinez looks on
Image alt text: Portugal Euro 2024 squad manager Roberto Martinez observing the pitch, highlighting his tactical role in the team’s Euro campaign.
However, their final group game against Georgia presented a significant setback. Despite fielding a strong starting eleven, Portugal succumbed to a 2-0 defeat. This loss, while not impacting their qualification, served as a stark reminder of vulnerabilities within the Portugal Euro squad.
The Round of 16 clash against Slovenia further amplified concerns. Cristiano Ronaldo, the iconic forward, found himself under scrutiny as his search for a tournament goal continued. The match concluded goalless after extra time, with Ronaldo even missing a penalty during the additional period. Ultimately, Portugal progressed to the quarter-finals via a penalty shootout victory (3-0), but the performance raised questions about their attacking fluidity and reliance on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play.
Despite these stuttering performances, the Portugal Euro squad boasts undeniable quality. Beyond Cristiano Ronaldo’s enduring presence, the team is rich in experienced and talented players. Defensive stalwarts like Pepe and Ruben Dias provide a solid foundation, while the midfield maestros Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva offer creativity and control. Emerging attacking talents such as Rafael Leao, Joao Felix, and Francisco Conceicao add further dynamism to the squad.
Portugal Euro 2024 squad Bruno Fernandes in action
Image alt text: Bruno Fernandes, a key midfielder for the Portugal Euro 2024 squad, demonstrating his dynamic play during the match against Slovenia.
Looking ahead, Portugal faces a daunting quarter-final encounter against France. Les Bleus, while also not at their peak form, represent a formidable challenge. Should Portugal overcome France, a semi-final clash against either Spain or Germany awaits, making their path to the final a gauntlet against European football’s heavyweights.
To navigate this challenging route, the Portugal Euro squad needs to rediscover the attacking fluency displayed earlier in the tournament and tighten their defensive resolve. While individual brilliance can be decisive, a more consistent and cohesive team performance will be crucial for Portugal to realize their Euro 2024 ambitions. The blend of experience and youthful exuberance within the squad offers potential, but unlocking that potential consistently on the pitch remains the key question for Roberto Martinez and his team as they progress deeper into the tournament.
Portugal Euro 2024 Squad: The Final 26-Man Team
| No. | Player | Pos |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rui Patricio | GK |
| 2 | Nelson Semedo | DF |
| 3 | Pepe | DF |
| 4 | Ruben Dias | DF |
| 5 | Diogo Dalot | DF |
| 6 | Joao Palhinha | MF |
| 7 | Cristiano Ronaldo | FW |
| 8 | Bruno Fernandes | MF |
| 9 | Goncalo Ramos | FW |
| 10 | Bernardo Silva | FW |
| 11 | Joao Felix | FW |
| 12 | Jose Sa | GK |
| 13 | Danilo Pereira | DF |
| 14 | Goncalo Inacio | DF |
| 15 | Joao Neves | MF |
| 16 | Matheus Nunes | MF |
| 17 | Rafael Leao | FW |
| 18 | Ruben Neves | MF |
| 19 | Nuno Mendes | DF |
| 20 | Joao Cancelo | DF |
| 21 | Diogo Jota | FW |
| 22 | Diogo Costa | GK |
| 23 | Vitinha | MF |
| 24 | Antonio Silva | DF |
| 25 | Pedro Neto | FW |
| 26 | Francisco Conceicao | FW |
Portugal Euro 2024 Fixtures and Results
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| June 18 | Portugal 2-1 Czech Republic | Red Bull Arena, Leipzig |
| June 22 | Turkey 0-3 Portugal | Westfalenstadion, Dortmund |
| June 26 | Georgia 2-0 Portugal | Arena AufSchalke, Gelsenkirchen |
| July 1 | Portugal 0-0 (3-0 pens) Slovenia | Waldstadion, Frankfurt |
Portugal Euro 2024 Top Scorers
1 goal: Francisco Conceicao, Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes
Portugal Euro 2024 Yellow Cards and Suspensions
1 yellow: Francisco Conceicao, Joao Palhinha, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Neto, Ruben Neves, Joao Cancelo
Portugal Manager: Roberto Martinez
Roberto Martinez’s tenure as Portugal manager has been marked by tactical flexibility and effective communication. His ability to connect with players and adapt strategies has been praised. As he approaches his 51st birthday, coinciding with the Euro final, Martinez will be aiming to guide the Portugal Euro squad to ultimate success.
