Thursday Euro 2016 Portugal vs Wales – Semi-finals Preview

July 07, 2016 20:00pm – Stade de Lyon, Lyon

Semi-finals

Recent Form (all comps)

Portugal: WWDDD

Wales: WWWLW

Seasoned Euro campaigners Portugal will line up in their fifth tournament semi-final on Wednesday night when they face a Wales team who are enjoying a dream debut at this event.

Having never previously qualified for a European Championship finals, few could have predicted that Wales would be one of four teams left standing at the semi-final stage in France. Standing in their way of a dream appearance in the final is a team that they have yet to face in a competitive environment. The last team to reach the semi-final stage at the first attempt was Sweden back in 1992.

In the three previous friendly meetings between the two sides, Portugal claimed two wins and Wales one. Remarkably, Portugal have yet to win a game in 90 minutes during this tournament, having drawn their three group stage matches and been taken to extra time and then penalties in their two knockout stage encounters. Despite their uninspiring performances, Cristiano Ronaldo’s men will start the game as clear favourites.

Unlike Portugal, Wales have won four matches in normal time since arriving in France. Their only disappointment came in the last minute defeat to arch-rivals England.

Match Facts

  • The teams last met in a friendly 16 years ago when Portugal won 3-0
  • Portugal have reached the semi-final stage in four of the last five Euro finals
  • This is Wales’ first semi-final appearance at any major event
  • Gareth Bale is joint-second in the race for the Golden Boot with a total of three goals

Prediction

Portugal may have the pedigree but Chris Coleman’s men have looked the better side at this tournament. If they can cope with the ever-mounting pressure, their improbable journey could continue into Sunday night.

You can back Wales to progress at 13/8 with Betfair.

Betfair is our recommended bookmaker for all your Euro 2016 bets.

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