Hamburg: France and Portugal are set to reignite their rivalry in a highly anticipated Euro 2024 quarter-final clash in Hamburg. Much attention is focused on the respective captains, Kylian Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo, as both teams seek to advance in a tournament where they've shown moments of brilliance mixed with challenges.

France, despite reaching their sixth quarter-final in the last seven major tournaments, have struggled to find the net convincingly. None of their goals have come from open play, with their three goals in four games including a penalty by Mbappe and two own goals. Mbappe, hampered by a broken nose early in the tournament, has not been at his peak form since his return. France's defence, however, has been stout, conceding only one goal, a penalty.

Portugal, on the other hand, navigated their way to the quarter-finals with a mix of resilience and occasional brilliance. They needed penalties to overcome Slovenia after a goalless draw, with Ronaldo experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions, including tears after missing a penalty in extra time. Despite challenges, Portugal has shown offensive prowess with notable wins over the Czech Republic and Turkey, although a recent loss to Georgia raised concerns.

Historically, encounters between France and Portugal in major tournaments have been decisive. Portugal famously defeated France in the Euro 2016 final, while clashes in previous Euros and World Cups have often shaped the tournaments' outcomes.

As they prepare for their quarter-final showdown, both teams face crucial tactical and emotional challenges. France's coach, Didier Deschamps, must strategize without the suspended Adrien Rabiot, while Portugal aims to rediscover their scoring touch against France's resilient defence.

With both Mbappe and Ronaldo leading their sides, the match promises to be a spectacle of skill, determination, and historical significance. As they step onto the pitch in Hamburg, the outcome of this latest chapter in their storied rivalry could once again alter the course of Euro 2024, shaping the tournament's narrative and possibly determining who lifts the trophy. AFP