Introduction
Portugal kicks off their series of pre-Euro 2024 friendlies with a match against Finland at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon on Tuesday evening. This fixture is crucial for Portugal's preparations ahead of their European Championship campaign, which starts on June 18 against the Czech Republic. Meanwhile, Finland will use this match to test their squad as they gear up for their next competitive fixture in the UEFA Nations League in September.
Portugal's Path to Euro 2024
Under the guidance of head coach Roberto Martinez, Portugal had an impeccable run in their Euro 2024 qualification group, winning all ten matches in Group J. They scored 36 goals and conceded just two, with Cristiano Ronaldo contributing ten goals. As they look forward to Euro 2024, Ronaldo remains a key player, poised to earn his 207th cap on Tuesday.
Portugal's history in the European Championship includes a triumph in 2016, though they only reached the round of 16 in the 2020 edition. With a squad teeming with talent, Portugal aims to improve upon past performances and are strong favorites to top Group F, which also features the Czech Republic, Turkey, and Georgia.
Finland's Current Form and Future Prospects
Finland made their debut in a major tournament at Euro 2020, though they were eliminated in the group stage. Despite missing out on Euro 2024 after losing to Wales in the semi-finals of the playoffs, Finland remains competitive, having won three of their last four matches in all competitions.
Their next official match is against Greece in the UEFA Nations League in September. Before that, they will face Scotland on June 7. Finland's recent form includes a 2-1 victory over Estonia, highlighting their capability to challenge stronger teams.
Team News and Key Players
Portugal
Roberto Martinez is expected to field a strong team while also experimenting with his lineup over the next three matches. Cristiano Ronaldo will lead the attack, potentially alongside Rafael Leao and Diogo Jota. Manchester United’s Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes, fresh from their FA Cup win, are likely to start, while veteran defender Pepe, now 41, might feature in central defense.
Finland's squad will be spearheaded by the experienced Teemu Pukki, who has 40 international goals to his name. Joel Pohjanpalo, with 15 goals for his country, is expected to partner Pukki in the attack. Midfielder Robin Lod, on the verge of earning his 67th cap, will bring experience to the midfield. Aberdeen’s Richard Jensen could start in defense, while Lukas Hradecky, the Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper and captain, will lead from the back.
Historical Matchups
Portugal and Finland have faced each other several times, with Finland recording a memorable 4-1 victory in a friendly in 2002. However, Portugal has won the last two encounters, including a 2-0 win in March 2011. This history sets the stage for a competitive match, with Finland aiming to challenge Portugal’s superiority.
Prediction
Considering Portugal’s depth and quality, they are expected to dominate the match. While Finland is resilient, they may find it difficult to cope with Portugal’s attacking strength. Ronaldo's form and the overall caliber of the Portuguese squad suggest a straightforward victory for the hosts.
Prediction: Portugal 3-0 Finland
Portugal possible starting lineup:Costa; Cancelo, Pepe, Dias, Dalot; Fernandes, Palhinha, Bernardo; Leao, Ronaldo, Jota
Finland possible starting lineup:
Hradecky; Alho, Tenho, Ivanov, Jensen; Lod, Peltola, Suhonen, Nissila; Pukki, Pohjanpalo
Conclusion
As Portugal gears up for Euro 2024, this friendly against Finland is an essential part of their preparation. With a squad filled with talent and experience, Portugal looks to fine-tune their strategies and build momentum. For Finland, this match is an opportunity to test themselves against one of Europe’s elite teams and gain valuable experience. Fans can anticipate an exciting game at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, showcasing high-quality football.