Portugal secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic in their Euro 2024 opener, thanks to a stoppage-time goal from Francisco Conceicao. The match saw Portugal come from behind after a stunning strike from Lukas Provod, with an own goal and Conceicao’s late winner sealing the win.
Key Takeaways
- Francisco Conceicao scored the winning goal in stoppage time.
- Cristiano Ronaldo made history by featuring in his sixth European Championship.
- Portugal dominated possession but struggled to convert chances.
- Czech Republic’s Lukas Provod scored a stunning opener.
- An own goal by Robin Hranac helped Portugal level the score.
Match Overview
The match, held at Leipzig Stadium, was a rollercoaster of emotions for both teams. Portugal, one of the favorites to win the tournament, faced a resilient Czech Republic side that nearly pulled off an upset.
First Half
Portugal dominated possession from the outset, but their efforts were thwarted by a disciplined Czech defense. Cristiano Ronaldo, making history as the first player to feature in six European Championships, had several chances but failed to convert. His best opportunity came from a Bruno Fernandes pass, but Czech goalkeeper Jindrich Stanek made a crucial save.
Second Half
The second half saw the Czech Republic take a surprising lead in the 62nd minute with a stunning strike from Lukas Provod. Portugal responded seven minutes later when a Nuno Mendes header deflected off Czech defender Robin Hranac for an own goal.
Stoppage Time Drama
As the match seemed destined for a draw, Portugal’s Diogo Jota had a goal disallowed by VAR for offside. However, in the dying moments of stoppage time, Francisco Conceicao, who had just been brought on, capitalized on a defensive error to score the winning goal.
Player Performances
- Francisco Conceicao: The hero of the match, scoring the decisive goal in stoppage time.
- Cristiano Ronaldo: Despite a lackluster performance, he made history by playing in his sixth European Championship.
- Vitinha: Impressed in midfield, completing 86 of his 91 passes and contributing to Portugal’s equalizer.
- Lukas Provod: Scored a stunning goal for the Czech Republic, showcasing his talent on the big stage.
Post-Match Reactions
Portugal’s man-of-the-match, Vitinha, emphasized the importance of believing until the very end. Czech Republic’s coach, Ivan Hasek, praised his team’s effort but acknowledged the disappointment of conceding a late goal.
Looking Ahead
Portugal’s victory puts them level on points with Turkey in Group F, who also won their opening match. The team will look to build on this momentum as they aim for another deep run in the tournament.
The Czech Republic, despite the loss, showed promise and will aim to bounce back in their next match.
Sources
- Euro 2024 – Portugal 2-1 Czech Republic: Francisco Conceicao outshines Cristiano Ronaldo with late winner | Football News | Sky Sports, Sky Sports.
- Cristiano Ronaldo wasteful as Portugal beat Czech Republic, Turkey raise more questions than answers – Euro 2024 hits and misses | Football News | Sky Sports, Sky Sports.
- EURO 2024: Stoppage Time Strike From Francesco Conceicao Helps Portugal Seal Thrilling Win Vs Czechia | Times Now, Times Now.
