“Portugal Secures Euro 2024 Last 16 Spot with Convincing Victory; Belgium Keeps Hopes Alive”
In Dortmund, Germany, Portugal triumphed over Turkey with a 3-0 win to secure a spot in the Euro 2024 last 16 on Saturday. Meanwhile, Belgium revived its campaign with a 2-0 victory against Romania. Portugal, European champions in 2016, showed their strength, securing first place in Group F.
Bernardo Silva of Manchester City scored the opening goal midway through the first half after a deflected cross from Nuno Mendes. Portugal’s second goal came just before the half-hour mark when Samet Akaydin’s misguided back pass rolled past goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, despite Zeki Celik’s efforts to clear it. Ronaldo later assisted Bruno Fernandes for Portugal’s third goal early in the second half.
With a previous 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic, Portugal is one of three teams with a perfect record from the first two games, guaranteeing their top spot in the group before their match against Georgia. Portugal will face one of the best third-place finishers in the last 16 in Frankfurt on July 1.
Coach Roberto Martinez noted the opportunity to make lineup changes in their next game, emphasizing the depth of talent in the squad. At 39, Ronaldo could become the tournament’s oldest scorer if he finds the net in Germany, though he didn’t add to his record tally of 14 goals in this match.
Belgium’s earlier 1-0 loss to Slovakia was offset by a strong start against Romania, with Youri Tielemans scoring early and Kevin De Bruyne sealing the win. The group remains open with all four teams tied on three points, as Belgium prepares to face Ukraine next, while Romania will play Slovakia.
Georgia earned its first-ever point at a major tournament with a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic. Turkey sits second in their group with three points, ahead of the Czech Republic and Georgia. Scotland aims to reach the knockout stages for the first time against Hungary, and host Germany looks to secure Group A’s top spot against Switzerland.
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