Francisco Conceicao scored a last-minute winner to give Portugal a victory over Czech Republic in their Euro 2024 opener. The game appeared headed for a draw after Lukas Provod put the underdogs ahead with a stunning goal from outside the penalty area, but Portugal equalized through a Robin Hranac own-goal. Diogo Jota thought he had given Portugal the lead in the 88th minute, but his goal was ruled out for offside. However, Conceicao’s goal secured all three points for Portugal, who now join other favorites like England, France, Spain, Italy, and Netherlands in winning their first game.
Portugal dominated possession in the match, with Czechia not parking the bus but overcommitting in attack and losing the ball. Despite Patrik Schick having a chance to put Czech Republic ahead in the first half, Diogo Costa was not truly threatened until Provod’s goal. The defensive lapses from Czechia made it difficult for them to hold off Portugal’s attacks, with the Portuguese substitutions making a significant impact on the game. The win puts Portugal in a good position for the knockouts, while Czechia will need results against Georgia and Turkey to have a chance at advancing.
The victory for Portugal was not without its criticisms, with the team failing to display the attacking and defensive prowess they showed in the Euro 2024 qualifiers. Manager Roberto Martinez opted for a conservative starting XI against Czech Republic, with the team struggling to break the deadlock until Jota’s introduction. Cristiano Ronaldo, despite becoming the first player to appear at six European Championships, had a quiet game until assisting the disallowed goal. With two more games before the knockouts, Martinez may consider changing to a back four and giving more playing time to players like Neto and Conceicao.
Bernardo Silva was named the Player of the Match for his patient performance in linking up play for Portugal. While Provod’s goal was a standout moment, Silva remained composed throughout the game and combined well with Vitinha. The match saw Portugal’s Silva-Fernandes axis put to the test, with opportunities created but not taken until the late goals. The performance highlighted areas in which Portugal can improve, with a need for better chemistry among the team’s key players.
The match had several highlights, including Silva’s chance in the 26th minute that went begging, Provod’s stunning goal in the 62nd minute, and Jota’s disallowed goal in the 88th minute. The late drama saw Conceicao score the winner in injury time, securing the victory for Portugal. The game showcased the competitive nature of the Euro 2024 tournament, with both teams showing moments of quality and vulnerability. Portugal will hope to build on this win and improve their performance in the upcoming matches to secure a spot in the knockout stages.
