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Rabat – Turkey and Portugal are set to clash at Westfalenstadion in Dortmund this evening, with both countries aiming to secure the top spot in Group F and progress to the last 16 of Euro 2024.
The two nations secured victories on matchday one. Turkey emerged with a 3-1 win over Georgia, while Portugal claimed a 2-1 comeback victory against the Czech Republic.
Turkey entered Euro 2024 on the back of a five-game winless run and had lost the opening match in each of their previous five European Championship appearances. However, they kick-started their campaign with a win over Georgia.
Ranked 40th in the latest FIFA rankings, Turkey has lost only two of their last 15 competitive games and can secure a place in the last 16 with a win. However, they have never beaten Portugal in the European Championship, failing to score in all three previous encounters.
Portugal, with a perfect record in Euro 2024 qualifying, faced a tough test in their first match against the Czech Republic. Lukas Provod’s long-range strike gave the Czechs a surprise lead, but Portugal equalized through an own goal by goalkeeper Jindrich Stanek.
However, Portugal has kept only one clean sheet in their last six international matches, which may be a concern for Martinez.
Statistically, Portugal holds the upper hand, having won all their previous competitive meetings with Turkey. But the team’s recent defensive struggles, with only one clean sheet in their last six internationals, could be a cause for concern for coach Roberto Martinez.
