Ronaldo and Bale Face Off In Semi-Finals

Portugal and Wales both advanced to the semi-finals of the European Championships much to the surprise of football fans. Portugal won on penalties after another disappointing display against Poland whiles Wales shocked the world by coming from a goal down to beat Belgium 3-1.

The two teams come into this game with Wales looking to secure a place in the final of a major competition. On the other hand, Portugal is looking to make a final appearance 12 years after falling out to Greece when they hosted the tournament in 2004.

Fernando Santos of Portugal has been riding with luck after sub-par performances so far. With one of the weakest defenses of the tournament, Portugal are counting on the emergence of youth players Fonte, Raphael Guerreiro, Cedric and the experience of Pepe. Portugal has it all to do and must improve upon their defensive build-up and link up to the attack to be able to knockout a Welsh side that is licking its fingers as they are so close to playing a major and showing rivals England how it’s done.

Chris Coleman has been able to devise a three-man leadership in the Welsh team. In defense, Coleman counts on the leadership of Ashley Williams to be able to organize the defensive play of the Welsh set-up. In midfield, the experience of Aaron Ramsey has provided invaluable support to the forwards of Wales though he is suspended his motivation off the bench would create a space for Wales. Gareth Bale leads an attack that has an in-form Robson-Kanu scoring from all angles and it not surprising that many teams are after his signature.

Ronaldo and Bale Leads the Attacks

Ronaldo and Bale are among two of the leading men for Real Madrid but they represent their national teams this time round. Cristiano Ronaldo has represented Portugal three times in this tournament, playing quarter finals, semi-finals and finals, the semi-finals coming against a penalty loss to Spain, a point he looks to cross this time round.

Gareth Bale has not represented Wales in any tournament and is savoring every game he plays. The unpredictability of Wales making another tournament is an added motivation for Bale to progress, it might be his last.

Portugal against Wales is a semi-final match that has surprised many but they are here because they deserve it and both Ronaldo and Bales relish this opportunity as it gives them a clear shot for the Ballon D’or amid their achievements in the Uefa Champions League.

Portugal faces Wales on July 6 at Parc Olympique Lyonnais.