Portugal vs Slovenia Prediction & Betting Tips (1 July)

Portugal presents itself as one of the favorite teams for this Euro 2024. Under the direction of Roberto Martinez, the Portuguese started their competition with a victory against the Czech Republic 2-1. They then confirmed their form by beating Turkey 3-0. However, on the final day, Georgia created a surprise by winning 2-0 against them, marking a setback for Portugal. During preparation, the 2016 European champion experienced ups and downs, including a 1-2 defeat against Croatia, followed by a victory against Ireland where Cristiano Ronaldo scored a 3-0 double. These performances make Portugal a team to watch closely in this competition. For their part, Slovenia is one of the teams which surprised during this group phase of the competition.

Indeed, the future opponent of Portugal obtained qualification for the next round by having finished in third place in its group, behind England and Denmark. However, despite rather successful performances, Slovenia qualified without obtaining a single success, against three draws in three matches. During these confrontations, they notably snatched a point against Serbia 1-1 or against Denmark 1-1. During the last match, the Slovenes scored a blow by recording a draw against England 0-0, one of the big favorite teams for this new edition of Euro 2024. Present at Euro 2000, the Slovenia has not participated in a European Championship since. However, she is making her big return to the European football scene by participating in this edition of Euro 2024.

Portugal is preparing to face Slovenia with the return of Rafael Leao, who was suspended during the last meeting. The team is almost at full strength, despite the absences of Raphaël Guerreiro (Bayern Munich) and Otavio (Al-Nassr), both injured. Renato Sanches (Roma) and winger Bruma (Braga) were not selected by choice. Among those present, veteran Pepe (Porto, 41 years old) is still faithful to the post, accompanied by Manchester City defender Ruben Dias. The defense is solidified by attacking full-backs Nuno Mendes (PSG) and Joao Cancelo (Barcelona). In the middle, the essential Bruno Fernandes (Man United) and Bernardo Silva (Man City), both scorers against Turkey, bring their experience. PSG's Vitinha has also performed well so far, while Cristiano Ronaldo remains the favored option in attack. The 39-year-old star, looking for his first goal in the competition, could well open the scoring against Slovenia.

Facing Portugal, an experienced team in this Euro, Slovenia presents a solid group. It includes key players such as Jan Oblak from Atlético Madrid, left-back Janza, who scored on the opening day, central defender Bijol from Udinese, as well as midfielders Stojanovic from Sampdoria and Cerin from Panathinaikos. Sporar, author of 8 goals in the Greek first division this season, and Verbic, who came on against Denmark, strengthen the Slovenian attack. Mlakar from Pisa and Sesko from Leipzig are also key pieces in attack. Vipotnik, after a promising season in Bordeaux (10 goals, 3 assists in Ligue 2), completes the squad. Slovenia's two goals in this tournament were scored by full-backs Karnicnik and Janza, illustrating the Slovenian team's varied contribution offensively.