Portugal vs. Wales — Tactical Report

Published : Jul 07, 2016 16:32 IST

Portugal defeated Wales 2-0 to seal its spot in the final of EURO 2016. This was Portugal's first win in normal time in the tournament.

Wales started with a 3-5-2 formation, but it sorely missed Aaron Ramsey who was suspended after picking up two bookings in the tournament. Ben Davies too missed out. They were replaced by Andy King and James Collins.

Portugal played a 4-1-3-2, but missed the services of Pepe in defence who was replaced by Bruno Alves.

Both the teams looked to break on the counter but the defence was solid for both the nations. Also, the pressure of the semi-final meant no one was willing to take any risks. This led to a rather drab first-half with only one shot on target. Wales didn't get any space on the wings and it seemed to lack ideas without Ramsey.

It was then left to Cristiano Ronaldo in the second-half to rise up to the occasion, and he did with a soaring header as he leaped unmarked to give Portugal the lead. Wales seemed to lose concentration and then conceded another. This time Ronaldo provided the assist for Nani (see picture) .

Coleman decided to use all three substitutes rather early, bringing on Vokes, Church and Williams but the Portuguese defence was solid throughout. Wales didn’t trouble Rui Patricio much and he didn’t have much to save except Bale’s long shots.

Portugal will certainly have to up its game in the final if it hopes to lift the cup, where it will face Germany or France. Either of the teams will provide more threat than Wales did.

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