Francisco Conceicao scored a last-minute winner as Portugal came from behind to beat the Czech Republic 2-1 in their Euro 2024 Group F opener in Leipzig. This marks Portugal’s second win in seven group stage games in this competition, boosting their campaign.
Portugal, pre-tournament favorites, faced a strong Czech team that had lost only one of their last 14 matches. The first half saw Portugal limited to long shots, with Nuno Mendes and Bruno Fernandes failing to break through.
Portugal created more chances as the half progressed. Rafael Leao narrowly missed a Fernandes cross, and Cristiano Ronaldo was twice denied by Czech goalkeeper Jindrich Stanek.
The Czech Republic held firm defensively and entered halftime without conceding, but they posed no threat to Portugal’s goalkeeper Diogo Costa.
After the break, Portugal continued to press, but the Czech Republic stunned them by taking the lead in the 62nd minute with Lukas Provod’s first-time strike.
Portugal equalized less than ten minutes later through an own goal by Robin Hranac after a Stanek save.
Portugal pushed for a winner, and Francisco Conceicao capitalized on a defensive error to score the decisive goal.
The win relieves pressure on Portugal, confirming their status as top contenders. The Czech Republic now needs to be more offensive against Georgia on Saturday to progress from Group F.
Conceicao’s late goal highlights Portugal’s resilience and determination, setting a positive path for their Euro 2024 campaign, while the Czech Republic must regroup for their next match.
Source: ghmediahub
