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Belgium versus Portugal showdown promises flair and skill

Belgium vs

Portugal

TWO OF the big guns at the Euros lock horns at Estadio Olimpico de Sevilla in Spain at 8pm on BBC1.

It will see one of the favourites, Belgium, pit their all star team against the 2016 winners of the tournament, Portugal, with their talisman and captain and a player classed as one of the best in the world, Cristiano Ronaldo, still seemingly at the peak of his powers.

Belgium will go into the game as slight favourites, but never underestimate a team with Ronaldo constantly inspiring the rest of his troops.

In the game against current world champions France, Portugal were at one point in last place in their part of the draw and looked to be heading out of the competition, but two penalties from Ronaldo ensured they secured a draw and finished in second place behind France to set up their Belgian date.

Belgium confirmed their place in the UEFA EURO

2020 round of 16 as Group B winners after breaking down stubborn Finland, who finish third in the section.

Mindful of how much a point could be worth to them in a tight group, Finland ceded possession to the Red Devils, defending in force. Belgium have overwhelmed other sides at this Euro, but Markku Kanerva’s team gave them only fleeting glimpses of goal.

Fate had a cruel blow in store for Finnish goalkeeper, Hradecky, who spilled the ball into his own net after Thomas Vermaelen’s shot ricocheted back at him off the goalpost. Hope of a comeback soon faded, Lukaku thumping in his third goal of the tournament after a neat turn inside the penalty area.

In the Portugal/France game, France had already confirmed their last-16 spot ahead of the 2016 final repeat, but in greater need of points, Portugal – fresh from a 4-2 loss to Germany – could not afford another defeat.

Lestia Against the run of play Ronaldo put Portugal in from the penalty spot, before Kylian Mbappé won the second spot kick of the match; Benzema converting. Another penalty from Ronaldo following a Benzema goal and Fernando Santos’ Portugal side managed cling on.

Belgium/Portugal will be an intriguing game with lots of stars on display including for Belgium Romelu Lukaku, Kevin de Bruyne and Michy Batshuayi. And for Portugal, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pepe and Ruben Dias. It is a brave man who predicts the winner.