One of the most mouth-watering ties in the last 16 Euro 2020 pitch Belgium against defending champions Portugal. The match schedules for Sunday in Seville with a kickoff at 10 pm.
Belgium had a 100% perfect record in the group stages finishing on top of their group. On the other hand, Portugal fought off a 2-2 draw against France on the final group stage day to make the last 16.
First off, Belgium had a perfect start in their group stages, but Robert Mancini will know the uphill task that comes in the knockout phase. The Red Devils started with a triumphant 3-0 win over Russia, followed by a 2-1 victory over Denmark.
In addition, Mancini remains unbeaten in 12 matches and will continuing fancy their chances of battling it out for the title. The Red Devils finished third at the 2018 World Cup but have not advanced past the quarter-finals of a European competition since being runners-up in 1980.
On the other hand, Portugal finished third in Group F, which many taunted as the ‘Group of Death.’ It was a game full of twists and turns against France as Ronald equaled Ali Daei’s international goal record.
Moreover, Portugal knows the uphill task that lies ahead in their defending reign. Furthermore, the side will battle it out with Italy, France, and Spain as possible opponents.
Belgium vs Portugal Head to Head
Both sides have two games against each other, with Portugal picking one win and one ending in a draw. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Finland 0-2 Belgium
- Denmark 1-2 Belgium
- Belgium 3-0 Russia
- Belgium 1-0 Croatia
- The Czech Republic 1-1 Belgium
Away
- Portugal 2-2 France
- Portugal 2-4 Germany
- Hungary 0-3 Portugal
- Portugal 4-0 Israel
- Luxembourg 1-3 Portugal
Belgium Team News
We expect a shakeup in the starting lineup to see an attacking trio of Kevin De Bruyne, Eden Hazard, and Romelu Lukaku. Furthermore, Dries Mertens might have to start on the bench this time around. Dedryck Boyata looks likely to get the nod ahead of Jason Denyaer in a back three.
Portugal Team News
Nelson Semedo expects to sit this one out after picking injury concerns in their clash with France. Bruno Fernandez might start on the bench in favor of a midfield made up of Danilo Perreira, Joao Moutinho, and Renato Sanchez.
Prediction and Odds
This is a difficult match to call out; thus, we expect a draw in a low-scoring encounter with defensive getting tested.
- Draw
- Goes to Penalties
- Ronaldo to Score
