Euro 2024 started with a thrilling match as Francisco Conceicao secured a 2-1 victory for Portugal against the Czech Republic in Group F.
Francisco Conceicao, 21, a winger from Porto who had just been substituted for the game, immediately scored from close range after the Czech defence failed to clear a cross. The goal capped Portugal’s comeback after they trailed due to Lukas Provod’s striking goal from just outside the box.
Portugal, led by the seasoned Cristiano Ronaldo, struggled to shine yet managed to edge out a win. Robin Hranac’s goal set Portugal to a level, setting the stage for Conceicao’s decisive finish. Ronaldo, making his record-extending sixth European Championship appearance, faced resistance from Czech goalkeeper Jindrich Stanek but remained a central figure in Portugal’s attack.
Portugal’s coach Roberto Martinez deployed a strategic three-centre-back defence, including 41-year-old Pepe, now the oldest player to compete in the Euros. Despite a rocky start in Germany, Ronaldo asserted that his team deserved to aim for another trophy, echoing their victorious 2016 campaign.
Under new coach Ivan Hasek, the Czech Republic largely contained Portugal, which entered the tournament after an unbeaten qualifying run with a high goal tally. Despite several close attempts and a disallowed goal for offside, Portugal’s persistence paid off with Conceicao’s late winner, putting them on top of their group alongside Turkey.
