Portugal vs France: Preview, predictions and lineups

There is a repeat of the 2016 final this Friday when Portugal face France in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024.

It was Portugal who ran out victors on that occasion, claiming their first and only European Championship thanks to Eder’s extra-time goal. However, they will have to improve significantly if they want to be crowned champions in Germany this time around following a disappointing display in the last 16.

Portugal had to rely on the brilliance of goalkeeper Diogo Costa in a penalty shootout victory over Slovenia following a goalless draw. Cristiano Ronaldo was the focus on a dramatic evening, with the Al Nassr striker missing a penalty and subsequently bursting into tears halfway through extra time.

France, who were many people’s pre-tournament favourites, were far from convincing in their last-16 clash with Belgium. While the better side, they needed a Jan Vertonghen own goal to secure safe passage to the quarter-finals. They have scored just three times at Euro 2024, two of which have been own goals and the other a penalty.

Here is 90min’s guide to Portugal vs France in the last eight of Euro 2024.

Portugal vs France H2H Record (Last Five Games)

Current form (all competitions)

Roberto Martinez doesn’t have any fitness concerns but does have one major selection headache. Another dismal display from Ronaldo has put his starting spot in doubt, but he is seemingly untouchable and will likely start again.

Diogo Jota and Francisco Conceicao both dazzled from the bench against Slovenia but may not be able to force their way into a star-studded Portugal forward line. At the back, Pepe should retain his spot despite an error that almost proved costly against Slovenia.

Portugal predicted lineup vs France (4-2-3-1): Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Pepe, Mendes; Vitinha, Palhinha; B. Silva, Fernandes, Leao; Ronaldo.

Similarly to Portugal, France…