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We now know which teams will be competing in the first two quarter-finals of Euro 2012 as Group A and Group B have been completed.
In the first match, Group A winners Czech Republic go up against Portugal on Thursday evening.
Looking at Czech Republic to being with, they beat Poland in their final game of the group stages and as results went their way, ended up finishing the group as winners.
Michal Bilek’s men had been written off by many when they lost the first match 4-1 against Russia. However, they then showed great spirit to bounce back and win their two remaining games.
Petr Jiracek has been the man in form in front of goal, finding the net two times is as many matches. Jiracek scored the all important winner against Poland.
Bilek will know his side still have it all to do if they are to make the semi-finals but they will be full of confidence and know that this stage of a tournament is a lottery.
As for Portugal, after a lot of people had backed them to go out at the group stages in the ‘group of death’ they have shown what a top side they are finished Group B in second place.
It was a 2-1 win against Holland that saw Paulo Bento’s men safely through to the knockout stages. Cristiano finally announced himself in Euro 2012 when he scored a brace against the Dutch.
With the form he now looks to be in, Ronaldo could be the key for Portugal to go far in the competition as on his day, it is difficult to stop him.
Bento will be confident that his team can come out on top in this fixture but will know that Czech Republic will be a tough opposition. However, if they are at their best – many people would back Portugal to win.
Match Odds
Portugal go into this encounter as favourites to make it to the semi-finals, they are being offered at 1.83 (5/6) with Paddy Power.
Czech Republic know they are the underdogs in this match with odds of 5.50 (9/2) with William Hill.
First Goal-Scorer
After his two goals last time out, it is no surprise that Cristiano Ronaldo is the favourite to break the deadlock on Thursday evening. You can back him at 4.50 (7/2) with BoyleSports.
The Czech’s best chance of scoring first looks to come from Milan Baros who is available at 10.00 (9/1) with BWIN.
Recommended Bet
Portugal look as though they have hit form at the perfect time and could have too much for their opponents this time out. A 4-1 win for Paulo Bento’s men can be backed at 34.00 (33/1) with Coral.
