Fernando Santos has found Belgium’s weaknesses, as Portugal’s coach. There is nothing to be gained by letting anyone know what they are.
In all three of their group games at the European Championship, the Belgians cruised to a 3-0 record, setting up a date with the defending champion Portugal in the round of 16 on Sunday.
Before Belgium’s victory over Denmark, Santos praised the Belgian team but pointed out that the team had problems, specifically in the second half of the game when the No. 1-ranked FIFA team was held to only six shots.
“While he did not want to reveal Portugal’s weaknesses, Santos said, “I’m not going to talk about their weaknesses now because I don’t want them to know what I’m thinking.” “There are, however, things we can look into. A few of their vulnerabilities were on display during the game against Denmark.”
Belgium opened with a comfortable 3-0 win over Russia, and it was necessary for it to win late on in the game to secure a 2-0 victory over Finland in the final game of group play. The Belgians came out on top with a 2-1 victory in between games.
Italy, the Netherlands, and Belgium were the only countries that won all of their group games at Euro 2020. With a win, a draw, and a loss, Portugal finished last in its group at the World Cup, as all three other teams in that group also advanced to the knockout rounds.
“Many of Belgium’s strengths lie in their knowledge of each other and how long they have lived together. Nothing gets in the way. It’s as simple as knowing where everyone is.”
BELGICA’S USE OF MULTIPLE FORMATIONS POSES A CHALLENGE FOR PORTUGAL.
“He explained that they could go with a 3-4-3, or with five in attack, or a 3-4-1-2. It’s a team that prefers to step on the court ready to go.
Although he had to be substituted at halftime in the 2-2 draw against France after a collision with the opposing goalkeeper, Santos is expected to have midfielder Danilo available for the match at La Cartuja Stadium.
Nelson Semedo, who was injured in France’s game, was able to practice without issue on Thursday.
Nuno Mendes was returning with the squad as well, having recovered from his injury and training on his own.
Ronaldo, who is one goal away from breaking the overall men’s scoring record, will once again be the leader of Portugal. Five goals in two games have put him on pace to become Iran’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing former striker Ali Daei, who is now in second place with 109 goals.
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