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Join on Telegram Marrakech – Portugal and Slovenia are set for a captivating Euro 2024 round of 16 encounter today at the Frankfurt Arena. Kick-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. Moroccan time.
Portugal, the Euro 2016 winners, topped Group F despite a shock 2-0 loss to Georgia last time out, ending a run of 12 straight victories in Euro qualifying and finals.
Midfielder Bruno Fernandes believes that defeat has put the team “on their toes” for this crucial clash. “After the negative results, people tend to focus on the negative aspects, but this is how football works,” he said.
“We respect every opponent. This [Slovenia] team has very relevant names, high-quality players – we respect them greatly.”
Slovenia, meanwhile, are in uncharted territory. A goalless draw with England secured their spot in the knockout phase of a major tournament for the first time ever.
Midfielder Adam Gnezda Čerin, who scored in Slovenia’s 2-0 friendly win over Portugal in March, insists they are not satisfied yet. “It is a new milestone for the Slovenian national team, for Slovenia in general,” he said.
“We have our goals and I think tomorrow’s match will be a beautiful evening for everyone to enjoy because these matches are something you dream about as a kid who starts playing football. We are not done.”
Portugal coach Roberto Martínez is expected to recall several key players who were rested against Georgia, including Bernardo Silva, João Cancelo, and Rúben Dias.
Rafael Leão is also available after serving a suspension. Slovenia have no fresh injury concerns, but defender David Janža is suspended.
The Seleção have reached at least the quarter-finals in five of their past six European Championships.
However, Slovenia’s disciplined defensive approach has yielded four consecutive draws at Euro 2024, including that stalemate against England. “I expect we will ‘suffer’ in certain moments,” admitted Slovenia boss Matjaž Kek. “As it stands now, everybody is in contention for this match.”
In the UK, the game will be shown live on BBC One with radio commentary on BBC 5 Live. Fans worldwide can consult their local listings for broadcast details.
With a quarter-final berth on the line, Portugal’s pedigree and Slovenia’s resilience promise a tense and absorbing contest in Frankfurt.
