‘ETERNAL FLAME’: Despite struggling in 11 duels, Bruno Fernandes emerges as the pivotal force in Portugal’s attack, creating four significant opportunities.
Portugal scraped through their Euro 2024 round of 16 clash with Slovenia on Monday night, winning 3-0 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw.
While Portugal enjoyed 72% possession and took 20 shots, they were largely ineffective in the final third, creating only one major chance throughout the encounter.
For Bruno Fernandes, it was largely a night to forget. Taking 120 touches, the Manchester United skipper was one of the most pivotal players in Portugal’s lineup throughout the 120-minute encounter.
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Completing 65 of 85 passes for a 76% passing accuracy, Fernandes’ passing was short of its usual standards and he only managed to complete five of 13 crosses.
On the bright side, he was highly involved in creating attacking opportunities for his team, producing four key passes and completing eight of 14 long balls.
Fernandes had little involvement in the attacking sense, making no shots on target and only attempting a single dribble all evening. He lost possession on a horrifying 40 occasions.
In terms of physicality, the Portuguese playmaker struggled against a dominant Slovenian side. He only won four of his 13 ground duels while losing both aerial battles.
Still, a resilient Fernandes exhibited a very high work rate, not only in possession but also tracking back to support his defence.
Fernandes made three tackles, which was not an easy feat against a rough Slovenian side. He also made a clearance and one successful interception.
Despite a mixed performance during the match, Fernandes proved his worth by stepping up when his country needed him most.
After Cristiano Ronaldo’s penalty during extra time was saved by Jan Oblak, Fernandes couldn’t have been blamed for feeling apprehensive about stepping up when the time came to take Portugal’s second penalty in the ensuing penalty shootout.
Nevertheless, the Man United playmaker remained composed as he raced forward and slotted the ball into the bottom left corner, beating the goalkeeper and giving Portugal a 2-0 lead.
Even though Fernandes’ performance was below average in several areas, he undoubtedly contributed to Portugal’s win and supported his team when they needed it most.
