Portugal is a team which relies heavily on his star stalwart, Christiano Ronaldo, who’s among the best footballers of this generation. If we do a swot analysis of the team, it will go something like this:
Strength:
Christiano Ronaldo, the name says it all. It will be Portuguese superstar’s fourth Euro Cup and perhaps his last.
He would sure love to fire his country to be the Champions. He is coming into the tournament in some hot form and a possible UEFA champions League can add a further spring to his feathers. Unlike in the past he is this time supported by a group of young players who have earned accolades through their performances in various European Leagues. William Carvalho, Renato Sanches and Bernardo Silva are the stars to look out for.
A strong back line consisting of Real Madrid’s Pepe and Fenerbahce’s Bruno Alves backed-up by 37-year-old veteran Ricardo Carvalho provide the necessary experience required for a big tournament.
Weakness:
Ronaldo is team’s biggest strength but also its biggest weakness.
There is an over dependence on Ronaldo which is understandable as he is one of the best two players in the world over the past decade.
But what are players without their teams. Portugal have been bogged down over the years by the lack of quality players around Ronaldo who could support the team. Luis Figo and Rui Costa have been there but have failed to live up to the expectations. There is no alternative striker to Ronaldo in the team and Ronaldo is coming off an injury scare which caused him to miss the first UCL semifinal leg against Manchester City.
Opportunity:
In the past three Euro’s Portugal have managed to reach the finals, Quarters and semifinals but still remain elusive of the top prize. This year presents another shot at the title with a favorable draw.
Portugal is in Group F and the likes of Austria, Hungary and Iceland to face, so in all possibility they should be able to top the group. And will be 3 matches away from the top Prize.
Threat:
The Knockout stages will be a tough draw with the possibility of facing Belgium or Italy. It will be a different ball game from the ones Portugal is likely to face in their group stages. These teams are fast and will be a challenge for the Portuguese back line who have experience but lack pace. And one goal is all it takes so Portugal will have to give in all to be able to come in terms with these star studded teams who themselves seek European Glory and start as favorites.