Belgium surprised no one when they blew through Group B after picking up maximum points from their three outings, although their round 16 match represents a real test when they face reigning European champions Portugal.
Roberto Martinez is one of the favorites to crown Portugal against Euro 2020, but they have been one of the favorites in almost every one of the last three major international tournaments and have yet to taste success.
If they will finally secure their first major tournament victory, they will have to hit some good sides along the way, and Portugal represent their first major obstacle.
This is how 90 minutes Martinez’s side can predict on Sunday …
Thibaut Courtois takes his place in goal / Lars Baron / Getty Images
Thibaut Courtois (GK) – Abandoned only once in the tournament so far after picking clean races against Finland and Russia. He will probably get his biggest test of the competition so far when he meets a certain Cristiano Ronaldo.Toby Alderweireld (CB) – Has looked more like a 52-year-old than a 32-year-old sometimes this tournament and will need to be much better if Belgium is to keep Portugal in check.
Jason Denayer (CB) – What he adds to the backline in youth he removes with the odd roar. Seems to have established itself as the preferred choice for Dedryck Boyata after launching its opener against Russia.
Jan Vertonghen (CB) – Last time out against Finland with qualification already in the bag so it should be healthy to face Portugal’s deadly front line.
Kevin De Bruyne starts in midfield / Lars Baron / Getty Images
Thomas Meunier (RWB) – Has got his chance after the terrible injury taken up by Leicester’s Timothy Castagne and has taken the chance with both hands so far.
Youri Tielemans (CM) – We will assume that he was rested for the collision with Finland rather than lost because he has so far produced some fantastic performances at the tournament.
Kevin De Bruyne (CM) – Made his comeback in a dramatic way against Denmark – took a goal and an assist – before continuing his return to full fitness by playing 80 minutes in the last group game.
Thorgan Hazard (LWB) – Has added balance in the Belgian midfield and looks to be a real threat as his side shoots forward.
Romelu Lukaku will start up / Isosport / MB Media / Getty Images
Dries Mertens (RW) – It has not really happened for him so far at Euro 2020, but he is a willing runner and offers good movement that helps free up space for Belgium’s deadly number nine.
Romelu Lukaku (ST) – Speak of the devil. Even when he is not scoring, he is a nightmare for defenders and his ability to protect the ball and bring others into play, so working with the channels is absolutely necessary for his team’s style of play.
Eden Hazard (LW) – Scored his first full 90 minutes for Belgium in almost two years against Finland and could finally be on his way back to full fitness.
