European Championship
Jun 27, 2021 8.00pm
1
0
HT : 1 0
FT San Mamés Barria
  • Thorgan Hazard 42' goal
  • Thomas Vermaelen 72' yellowcard
  • Toby Alderweireld 81' yellowcard
  • yellowcard Joao Palhinha 45'
  • yellowcard Diogo Dalot 51'
  • yellowcard Pepe 77'

How Portugal could line up against Belgium

How Portugal could line up against Belgium

Portugal boss Fernando Santos has a big decision to make when it comes to Bruno Fernandes for Sunday's Euro 2020 last-16 clash against Belgium.

Fernandes was left out of the starting XI against France on Wednesday, and the decision paid off for the holders, who secured a point to advance to the next round as one of the best third-placed sides.

The Manchester United attacker could again be left out of the side against Belgium, with Santos potentially sticking with Danilo, Joao Moutinho and Renato Sanches as a midfield three.

Danilo had to be substituted against France after taking a blow to the face, but the midfielder has trained ahead of the contest and should be available to start.

Nelson Semedo was also replaced in the latter stages of Wednesday's match, but like Danilo, the defender trained on Friday and is likely to retain his spot in the side, with Diogo Dalot on standby.

There are unlikely to be any alterations in the final third of the field, with Cristiano Ronaldo, who will be looking to become the all-time leading international goalscorer, set to be joined by Bernardo Silva and Diogo Jota.

Santos does have the option of switching to a 4-2-3-1 and bringing Fernandes back in the side, but the experienced manager might deem that to be too risky against a talented Belgium.

Portugal possible starting lineup: Patricio; Semedo, Dias, Pepe, Guerreiro; Moutinho, Danilo, Sanches; Bernardo, Ronaldo, Jota

> Click here to see how Belgium could line up for the clash

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POLL
Who will win Sunday's European Championship clash between Portugal and Belgium?
Portugal 52%
Draw 22%
Belgium 26%
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