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Only one match today, but it is an important one: Portugal vs. Czech Republic in the first quarter-final game. Portugal survived the toughest Group in the first stage, losing to Germany but then beating Denmark and the Netherlands to advance. Cristiano Ronaldo looked a little off-kilter for the first two matches, but then scored twice in the third and really shredded the Dutch defense. But the whole Portugal offense was dangerous - they looked good from set pieces and kept the pressure up for most of the game in 2 of their 3 matches.
Portugal's defense can be beaten, though. They allowed 4 goals in 3 games and left some space open in the "between the back line and the midfield" area. If the Czechs can win a few loose balls and control the middle of the field, they will definitely be able to create chances.
Czech Republic got somewhat lucky in winning Group A, as they looked awful in the first match. The only time in the tournament they looked really dangerous was in the first 30 minutes of the Greece match; and even in that match, they had to hang on by their fingernails for a 2-1 win. But, with Petr Cech, Tomas Rosicky, Michal Kadlec, and Vaclav Pilar, they have enough talent to win a match like this. I imagine Czech Republic would be happy to go into the half with a 0-0 scoreline, and then look to grab one in the 2nd. If Portugal gets an early goal and the Czechs have to push forward, it could be over after 45 minutes.
Check in below if you're watching. A reminder I always seem to have to make when CR is playing: homophobic slurs are not allowed. Thanks for reading.