A Preview Ahead of the Iberian Clash

(Photo credit : Christof Stache & Getty Images)

Wednesday night’s clash between Portugal and Spain will determine which footballing giants will earn their right to face either Germany or Italy at Kyiv’s Olympic Stadium on July 1st. 

La Roja will be eyeing their third consecutive trophy, a feat no international side can compete with. Spain’s Vicente Del Bosque stressed the importance and needing to “deactivate” the lethal Cristiano Ronaldo during his press conference on Tuesday. “These types of games, in this type of competition, are always very tense,” said Del Bosque. “And you need to have the know-how to win them.” 

The question lies in whether or not the Spanish have what it takes to defuse the likes of Nani and Cristiano Ronaldo. The strength of the Portuguese attack is what allowed them to thrash the Spanish 4-0 in Lisbon only four months after lifting the World Cup trophy. Despite being a friendly, it was Spain’s worst loss since 1963.

Both the Selecção and La Furia Roja have been setback with injuries. Most recently, Hélder Postiga has been ruled out for Portugal with a thigh injury obtained in their match against the Czech Republic. Postiga will be replaced by Hugo Almeida to lead the Portuguese attack. 

Spain has most notably suffered without their top scorer David Villa and the experience of Carles Puyol to strengthen their defense. Spain’s Xabi Alonso insists “We’ve got nothing planned,” he said coolly. “We’ll play the same regardless of the rival.” Spain’s possession dominant game will surely put pressure on the Portuguese.

Portugal’s Paulo Bento recognizes the “beautiful opportunity” the match presents. “We have to put pressure on our opponents and our aim is not to defend all the time. We won't do that against the world and European champions.” said Bento. A victory would ensure Portugal’s second final in Euro history. Cristiano Ronaldo told UEFA.com about his untroubled attitude going into tomorrow’s match. “I will always have responsibility, but pressure? Not much.” said the Portuguese front man.

Both sides have assured fans and the press of their confidence ahead of the match, however the semi-finals won’t be the last of the Euro’s tense competition. The winner in Donetsk would either face the imitable Andrea Pirlo and the Azzuri or the Joachim Loew’s formidable German lineup. The world is in for a show tomorrow night in Donetsk, and surely the sheer number of football superstars on the pitch will ensure a game of world class football that is only steps away from the final and the coveted Euro Championship trophy.

written by Madena Sharef