Francisco Conceicao scored a thrilling late winner as Portugal rallied from a goal down to defeat the Czech Republic 2-1 in their Euro 2024 opener in Leipzig.
Portugal, under the management of Roberto Martinez and considered one of the tournament favorites after a flawless qualifying campaign, faced a determined Czech side that nearly caused an upset.
The Czech Republic, who spent most of the match defending in their own half, shocked Portugal with Lukas Provod’s superb second-half strike that found the far corner.
Their lead was short-lived as Nuno Mendes’ header was parried by goalkeeper Jindrich Stanek, only for the ball to ricochet off Robin Hranac for an own goal, leveling the score.
Diogo Jota’s late goal was disallowed for offside, but Portugal’s persistence paid off in stoppage time when Conceicao fired home the decisive goal.
The victory was especially memorable for Portugal’s captain Cristiano Ronaldo, marking his record sixth European Championship appearance with a win.
Portugal’s Persistence Pays Off
Portugal entered Euro 2024 with high expectations, buoyed by their impressive qualifying run. Their fans in Leipzig were optimistic about adding another European Championship title to their 2016 triumph.
From the start, Portugal dominated possession and kept the Czech Republic on the defensive. However, converting their build-up play into goals proved challenging, with Czech keeper Stanek making several crucial saves.
Ronaldo, the focal point of Portugal’s attack, had two of the best chances in the first half but was thwarted by Stanek. A tame free-kick and an offside call on a potential Jota goal seemed to spell a frustrating night for Portugal.
However, Portugal’s determination was evident as they continued to press for a winner. Young star Francisco Conceicao, a 21-year-old substitute, delivered the decisive moment, scoring from close range in stoppage time to secure the three points.
The Czech Republic, clear underdogs heading into the match, nearly pulled off a surprise result. Under coach Ivan Hasek, they had been unbeaten since his appointment in January and executed a near-perfect defensive strategy against Portugal.
Provod’s stunning goal gave them a glimmer of victory, but defensive resilience alone wasn’t enough to secure the points. The own goal and Conceicao’s late strike dashed their hopes.
Despite the heartbreak, the Czech Republic can take positives from their performance as they prepare for their remaining Group F matches against Turkey and Georgia, encouraged by their ability to compete against one of the tournament favorites.
