Euro 2008
2008-06-07 - Portugal vs Turkey
A Sports Betting Pick by Gooner
UEFA Euro 2008 - Group A
Saturday 7th June 2008 - KO 19:45
PORTUGAL
Portugal's hopes rely on two men the incomparable Cristiano Ronaldo on the pitch and Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari sitting on the bench.
Portugal play a 4-2-3-1 formation with wingers like Ronaldo Simao and Nani providing a steady supply of chances the lone striker.
The big question for Scolari, though, lies up front, with the more experienced Nuno Gomes facing competition from the powerful Hugo Almeida and the gifted Helder Postiga.
Portugal's progress to the finals was stuttering, with a series of score draws against Serbia, Poland and, surprisingly, Armenia. Eventually Portugal progressed with a 0-0 draw in Finaldn on the final day.
TURKEY
Turkey have endured a couple of poor campaigns since finishing 3rd at the 2002 FIFA World Cup - but they reached their first finals in six years and coach Fatih Terim will attempt to find the formula ince again.
Terim is prone to deploy a narrow line-up, preferring 4-3-1-2, 4-1-3-2 and 4-1-2-1-2 formations that offers less scope for wide play but with With Hakan Sukur left out of the finals squad, it seems that Turkey have signaled a change in their attacking style.
The new-look side may be led by the relatively small but quick Tuncay Sanlı and Nihat Kahveci, while the Turkish league's top scorer Semih Senturk is a useful counterattacking option.
HEAD TO HEAD
Portugal won the last clash between the two sides, beating Turkey 2-0 in Amsterdam during Euro 2000, and I remember watching this game in the stadium.
Overll Portugal have a 4-0-0 advantage over Turkey in competitive matches, but the Turks have improved significantly since the last clash.
THE VERDICT
An intriguing first match, and potentially a very important game with the tough Czech Rep side and host Switzerland also in the group.
I make Portugal about 1/4 to 1/2 a goal stronger in this match, based on results over the last 4-6 seasons, and with Cristiano Ronaldo they have the outstanding player on the pitch.
The Pick :
Portugal 1-0 Turkey
