Portugal secured a narrow victory in a tense penalty shootout over Slovenia to secure a place in the quarter-finals of Euro Cup 2024. The Round of 16 clash at the Frankfurt Arena was fiercely contested, with neither side able to break the deadlock during the stipulated regular play.
Match Result:
Portugal 0(3) – 0(0) Slovenia
First Half Analysis
The first half was a drab affair with both the teams struggling to create chances. Play was restricted mainly in the midfield with Slovenia playing a very defensive game, incurring two yellow cards in the process. Portugal threatened a couple of times but couldn’t breach the Slovenian backline. 
Key Moments
Slovenia received two yellow cards.
Joao Palhinha’s shot hit the post.
Cristiano Ronaldo had a lackluster first half.
Second Half Highlights
In the second half, Portugal came in with a renewed vigor. Bruno Fernandes became more involved, posing a threat, but the Slovenian defense remained steadfast. However, Slovenia out of the blue almost scored through Sesko in the 61st minute.
Key Moments
Sesko missed a golden opportunity in the 61st minute.
Portugal failed to convert their possession into chances.
Bruno Fernandes appeared sharp and menacing
Extra Time Highlights
Extra time was the most exciting period of the match. Portugal came close on several occasions, but Jan Oblak’s heroics kept them at bay. Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty in the 105th minute, with Oblak making a spectacular save. In the second half of extra time, Sesko again had a 1v1 chance but failed to score.
Key Moments
Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty.
Portugal struggled to create concrete chances.
Benjamin Sesko missed a crucial 1v1 opportunity.
Match Defining Moments
Bruno Fernandes’ Influence:
Portugal lacked creativity in the first half, with Bernardo Silva tightly marked by the Slovenian defense, rendering Ronaldo ineffective. Roberto Martinez needed a game-changer, and Bruno Fernandes stepped in. The Manchester United captain increased the tempo in the second half, keeping Portugal in the game. Although they didn’t score, Fernandes’ play unsettled Slovenia.
Diogo Costa’s Crucial Save:
Slovenia performed admirably but were unlucky. In the final moments of extra time, Benjamin Sesko found himself in a 1v1 against Portugal’s goalkeeper, Diogo Costa. Pepe’s error almost cost Portugal, but Costa’s thrilling save pushed the match to penalties.
Diogo Costa’s Penalty Heroics:
Slovenia had momentum entering the penalty shootout, with Oblak already having saved a penalty during regular play. However, Diogo Costa eclipsed him, saving all three Slovenian penalties, ensuring a comfortable victory for Portugal. Costa was the match’s hero, not only for his shootout saves but also for his critical 1v1 saves.
Implications and Future Prospects
The win propel Portugal to the quarterfinal where they will face France on July 6. However, Ronaldo and co. performance leaves much to be desired. Their attack struggles, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s poor form exacerbates their issues. Roberto Martinez must address their offensive problems or face a tough challenge against France.
Slovenia played brilliantly and deserved to progress, but the penalty shootout dashed their hopes. Sesko’s late miss was a significant setback, but Slovenia can take pride in their Euro 2024 campaign, remaining unbeaten in regular time.
Upcoming Fixtures
France vs. Portugal: July 6; Parimatch odds – France to win: 1.73x, Portugal to win: 2.18x)
Conclusion
Portugal narrowly avoided a major upset but must find solutions before facing France. Their defense looks solid, but their attack has been a disappointment. Slovenia tested them thoroughly, and if Portugal continues in this vein, they may struggle against a formidable French side.
