Euro 2024: Cristiano Ronaldo to lead, will Bruno Fernandes be benched? Portugal Playing XI vs Czech Republic

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Portugal's Euro 2024 journey starts against the Czech Republic in a Group F encounter on Tuesday (June 18).

Cristiano Ronaldo and his team are one of the favourites to clinch the title this year and a positive start is imminent for them. With Georgia, Czech Republic and Turkey in their group, Portugal is expected to qualify from the group stages.

Roberto Martinez named a strong squad which has a lot of top-class players across positions. As the Euro 2016 champions take the field in Leipzig, with multiple players in each position, it is going to be a challenge for Roberto Martinez to name a starting lineup.

Portugal vs Czech Republic: What will be Portugal Playing XI?

Cristiano Ronaldo, their talismanic captain is set to lead the line for Portugal. The 39-year-old has been in terrific form and will play a pivotal to role for his country, which may well be his last Euros tournament. Bernardo Silva and Rafael Leao are likely starters on the wing for them.

Bruno Fernandes is another key player in their team and the attacking midfielder is also certain to start for them. If Portugal play in a 4-3-3 formation, Ruben Neves and Joao Palhinha can pair with him, with the latter stationed as a defensive midfielder.

In defence, veteran defender Pepe is an option, but Goncalo Inacio may couple up with Manchester City defender Ruben Dias as centre backs. Joao Cancelo is the obvious first choice and it looks like Nuno Mendes will get the nod at the left side of defence.

Portugal Playing XI vs Czech Republic

Diogo Costa; Joao Cancelo, Goncalo Inacio, Ruben Dias, Nuno Mendes; Bruno Fernandes, Joao Palhinha, Ruben Neves; Bernardo Silva, Cristiano Ronaldo, Rafael Leao