Czech Republic – Portugal, crystal in front of Ronaldo’s gun

The two teams participating in the first quarter-final of Euro 2012 have gone through the same journey in the group stage.

In the group stage, the Czech Republic showed its mental strength and bravery.

Ronaldo and his teammates convincingly passed the group stage.

Portugal showed improvement in its playing style through each match in the group stage.

The victory over the Netherlands not only brought a place in the quarterfinals for Portugal but was also a big morale boost for the players.

According to experts, it will be very worrying for the Czech Republic when they have to face Ronaldo who is in top form.

In addition to worrying about Ronaldo, the Czech also has a significant weakness: poor interception ability in balls where the opponent uses speed.

On the offensive front, the Czechs also have many things to worry about.

Jiracek is the leader of the Czech Republic at Euro 2012.

In a match that was underestimated in every aspect against Portugal, the Czech Republic could only put their trust in the midfield.

Meanwhile, Portugal’s midfield is causing coach Bento a headache at this year’s Euro.

Poborsky’s beautiful lob helped the Czech Republic defeat Portugal in the quarterfinals of Euro 1996.

In terms of direct confrontation, the two sides are appearing quite balanced.

However, the Czech Republic’s time with stars like Poborsky, Nedved or Smicer is long gone and the day when they can play on par with big teams will probably be many years away from repeating.

Probable teams

Czech Republic: Cech, Gebre Selassie, Sivok, Kadlec, Limbersky, Hubschman, Plasil, Jiracek, Rosicky, Pilar, Baros.

Portugal: Rui Patricio, Alves, Pepe, Coentrao, Joao Pereira, Veloso, Joao Moutinho, Meireles, Nani, Ronaldo, Postiga.

Ngoc Hai