Defence
France’s Laurent Koscielny was arguably the best centre-back in the semi-finals. The Arsenal defender was a rock at the back for the French defence and kept Germany at bay with his timely clearances. He made a total of 11 clearances – more than any other player in the semis.
Although Germany had shots on goal, France’s centre-backs were hardly at fault for shots from free-kicks and long-range efforts. Koscielny’s partner Samuel Umtiti, playing in only his second game at Euro, also stood strong at the back, making nine clearances. And both players ensured Thomas Muller was neutralised.
Both of Portugal’s full-backs get the nod in defence. Raphael Guerreiro and Cedric Soares were instrumental in negating Wales’ 5-3-2 formation that many teams have struggled to break down.
The Welsh wing-backs Chris Gunter and Neil Taylor were pegged back thanks to Portugal’s high defensive line and it allowed Guerreiro and Soares to advance up the pitch and stretch the defence which allowed Nani and Cristiano Ronaldo to find space.
Guerreiro himself was responsible for creating the first goal. It was his cross that was floated into the box which allowed Ronaldo to score with a brilliant header to open the scoring. Soares, on the other hand, made as many as 5 clearances and 4 tackles, ensuring Bale never saw much of the ball on the left.
