Portugal team analysis
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Article summary
Hélio Sousa's Portuguese side had a clear playing philosophy which took them all the way to the final and a glorious late denouement against Italy.
Article top media content
Article body
Key features – Portugal
• 1-4-3-3 based on skilful, short-passing combination moves
• Active high or mid collective defence; good criteria when and how to press
• Effective wrong-footed wingers combining well with advancing full-backs
• Fluent middle-to-front rotations; Florentino the balancing midfielder
• Excellent 1 v 1 attacking; pace, dribbling, fast combinations in final third
• Mix of elaborate build-up or direct counters; keeper playing short or long
• Strong team and work ethics, loyalty to a clear playing philosophy
Head coach: Hélio Sousa (12/08/1969)