The game will see Cristiano Ronaldo and Antoine Griezmann come up against each other for another title showdown, just six weeks after they contested the Champions League final.
Although France coach Didier Deschamps says he could feel the adrenaline pumping, he will have to do a lot to ensure his boys record another Euro success, 16 years after lifting the trophy in 2000
Here are five things France needs to do to defeat Portugal
1. Keep a close eye on Ronaldo
Ronaldo had a difficult start to Euro 2016, but against all odds he is set to play in tonight’s final. The Real Madrid star has raised his game and his team at key moments as Portugal steadily improved through the knockout rounds.
Ronaldo knows a victory in this game will see him lift his first ever trophy for his country. Hence, France have to be wary of his threat and his aerial strength. The way he leaped high in the air to head the opening goal against Wales in the semifinals suggest Ronaldo is hungry for success.
2. Caution Hugo Lloris about aerial balls
Often acting as the sweeper by rushing off his line to thwart attacks early, the Tottenham goalkeeper can be vulnerable at crosses. This is one area Coach Deschamps
3. Check the runs of Raphael Guerreiro
Guerreiro has impressed at Euro 2016 and has been lively going forward.
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The Portugal left back deliveries have been exceptional and he was the one who provided the cross for Ronaldo’s header against wale
Raphael guerriero
This should be no surprise to Borussia Dortmund, which acted early in the tournament to sign Guerreiro from French club Lorient. France will have to do a whole lot to watch his runs.
4. Capitalize on home support
France have a habit of winning tournaments at home. There is something about that culture. They won the Euros in 1984 when they hosted and FIFA World Cup in 1998, again on home soil. Now it is 16 years later from then and they look to repeat the same feat with the support of their fans
Griezmann makes it 4 – 0 with a lob against Iceland
It is worth noting that France in 1998 also won the World Cup on home soil too.
5. Avoid pressure on Griezmann
After an impressive campaign with Atletico Madrid which included a Champions League final, Griezmann has been tipped by many to win the Ballon d’Or this year – a prize which has been shared exclusively between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo after Kaka claimed it in 2007.
Griezmann and Giroud celebrate
The Atletico Madrid forward is on the brink of winning the Golden Boot at Euro 2016, with six goals to his name – three more than anyone else, including Ronaldo – ahead of his participation in Sunday’s final for France against Portugal in Paris.
All eyes will be on him tonight but coach Deschamps will have to a lot talking to take the pressure of the young lad.
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