UEFA Euro 2024: Portugal vs France quarterfinal match preview, start time

 Despite having a wealth of quality at their disposal, neither Portugal nor France have impressed thus far in the tournament; nonetheless, they possess match-winners who can find a pivotal moment in an instant.

Few people genuinely believe Portugal and France will win Euro 2024, despite being the tournament favorites going into their quarterfinal matchup.

Despite the tantalizing match featuring superstars from both teams, neither has been able to make an impression, particularly in the attacking department.

There have been many highs and lows throughout Portugal's campaign. The Selecao began the tournament with two victories before unexpectedly losing to Georgia and needing a thrilling penalty shootout victory over Slovenia to go to the quarterfinals.

Their seasoned captain Cristiano Ronaldo has struggled in front of goal, while Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva have found the back of the net. In the round of 16, the 39-year-old, who was competing in a record sixth Euros, broke down in tears of frustration after Slovenia's penalty was saved in extra time.

In the next shootout, Ronaldo scored, but his ability to score goals is declining, prompting concerns about where he should start. Despite having more shots than any other player at Euro 2024 (20), the Al Nassr forward has failed to score in his last eight tournament games.

Will Mbappe or Griezmann outdo Ronaldo to ignite the title bid?

Pre-tournament favorites and twice world champions France have also been sluggish, failing to score from open play in the tournament.

France’s stalwart forward Kylian Mbappe scored a penalty in his comeback against Poland after breaking his nose in their opener, while France’s other two goals have come courtesy of the opposition.

France’s assistant coach Guy Stephan said Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann have been singled out for unfair criticism.

“We all downplayed Mbappe’s broken nose a bit,” Stephan told reporters. “It doesn’t explain everything, but the shock was traumatic. The mask he is forced to play with is not easy, it’s difficult for his peripheral vision.

He also had a rather demanding season finale. However, Kylian is still an elite player. These elite players can occasionally be a touch less skilled.

He continued, "With Griezmann, we're talking about a player who has 133 caps, 44 goals, and played more than 80 games in a row for the France team until last March."

Both teams' struggling front lines need to get going as the winner of the match will face either Germany or Spain in the semifinal in Munich.

The match on Friday is a rematch of the Euro 2016 final in Paris, where Portugal surprised the home team by winning 1-0 in extra time thanks to a goal from striker Eder.

Portugal wants to add to their 2016 championship, while France wants to win their third championship.

FIFA ranking:

Portugal (6), France (2)

Head-to-head record:

28 games – 6 wins for Portugal, 19 for France, 3 draws.

Last five matches:
Portugal: D L W W W
France: W D D W D