Chico explodes in a straitjacket

After so much talk about jerseys, Martinez chose a new tactical suit for the first game: Nuno Mendes as a third central player, but more of a side, Cancelo as a striker, but more of a midfielder, and Vitinha as a six, but more of an eight. ‘. Embarrassed? It `s naturally. This suggested that the players were doing the same thing even when taking their places in the first half.

The Czechs closed at all costs, and Portugal had difficulty finding a way to the goal – Rafael Lean was late (26 minutes) for Bruno Fernandes’ pass, and Ronaldo, too, alone could not deceive Stanek with only two shots. on goal. The break and Martinez’s first tee were very uncomfortable.

Portugal controlled possession well, but they lacked speed and better ideas. The team found themselves trapped and tried unsuccessfully to free themselves with crosses or long-range shots. Well, the Czech Republic only needed one photo to show how it’s done. Big bomb from Wire in the 62nd minute and the worst is around the corner. 0-1.

And then Martinez changed. Inacio replaced him, and Jota came to CR7’s aid. Who changes… God helps there. The equalizer fell from the sky, which was a disaster for the Czech defense, and the own goal revived the Portuguese hearts.

The game remained far from brilliant, and requests for further changes were almost audible from the bench. Jota also scored a goal that was disallowed, and it was only later in the 90th minute that Pedro Neto and Francisco Conceicao came into play. Well, it was just in time. Chico tore the straitjacket and released the Portuguese into freedom. Against the Czechs, the decision should have been Chico.