Where the final will be won and lost
Saturday, July 9, 2016
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EURO2016.com's team reporters are in agreement that Cristiano Ronaldo is likely to play a decisive role, but where else might Portugal v France be won and lost?
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Joe Walker, EURO2016.com Portugal team reporter (@UEFAcomJoeW)
Which Ronaldo turns up
Cristiano Ronaldo put in a vintage display in the semi-final with Wales, but he's also endured his fair share of frustration – notably against Austria and Iceland in the group stage. He's been a big-game player throughout his career, though, and matches don't come much larger than Sunday. If the Ronaldo that slayed the Welsh dragon turns up, Portugal have a real chance of lifting a first major trophy.
Pepe's return
Arguably Portugal's player of the tournament before injury kept him out on Wednesday, Pepe has already successfully shackled the likes of Mario Mandžukić and Robert Lewandowski. He'll be needed more than ever if Portugal are to stop adidas Golden Boot winner-elect Antoine Griezmann. Bruno Alves was commendable against Gareth Bale and Co, yet Pepe looks better equipped to handle Griezmann and Olivier Giroud.
Midfield secret weapon
Adrien Silva may not have been as eye-catching as Renato Sanches in the knockout stage, but his terrier-like work ethic has been hugely significant. Just ask Luka Modrić, denied all time and space in the last 16. The Sporting CP midfielder's pressing also unsettled Wales and Poland, and his energy will be necessary to stymie Paul Pogba and his team-mates. Fluent in French too, could Silva help pass on Les Bleus' on-pitch instructions?
David Crossan, EURO2016.com France team reporter (@UEFAcomDavidC)
The Griezmann factor
Griezmann appears the perfect forward to exploit Portugal's lack of mobility at the back. The No7 has been on fire since the group stage and his fleetness of foot and mind could prove too much for centre-backs Pepe, 33, and José Fonte, 32. Griezmann covers an awful lot of ground for an attacker and will ensure Portugal are not given a moment's rest, especially with partner-in-crime Giroud offering a physical contest.
Unpicking the lock
Les Bleus will have more possession than against Germany (35%) on Thursday and it will be down to ball players Pogba and Dimitri Payet to break down a disciplined Portuguese rearguard. Pogba has become more relaxed and influential as the championship has progressed, while Payet is unlikely to be off colour two matches in a row having had his least effective game so far in the semi.
Ronaldo v Umtiti
Man for man, it seems fair to suggest France are superior to Portugal. But Fernando Santos has Ronaldo to call on; if the Selecção skipper has one of his special days then Samuel Umtiti – a Barcelona player next season – could be in for a torrid night.
Both Joe and David have been embedded in their respective team camps since the start of June. Let us and them knowing using #EURO2016 if you think there could be another decisive factor on Sunday.