Portugal 2-4 Germany: 5 Talking Points as Germany floor defending champions | UEFA Euro 2020

Portugal vs Germany - UEFA Euro 2020: Group F
Portugal vs Germany - UEFA Euro 2020: Group F

#3 Germany produce a vintage performance

Portugal vs Germany - UEFA Euro 2020: Group F
Portugal vs Germany - UEFA Euro 2020: Group F

Germany came into this game against Portugal under immense pressure. Anything less than three points from this game would have made qualifying for the knockout round at Euro 2020 nearly impossible.

Nevertheless, Germany turned around their indifferent recent form with a vintage performance against the defending champions and dominated Portugal all game. In their opening fixture against France, Germany were passive with their movement and passing. But against Portugal, they played at a high tempo and a lot of intensity. They moved the ball around with intent, and their off-the-ball movement caused all sorts of problems for Portugal.

It was a complete team performance from Germany, and every player seemed to play his role to perfection. Prior to the tournament, no one gave Germany a chance of winning the tournament. But if they can build on this performance, the former European Championship winners could be serious contenders at Euro 2020.


#4 Germany's flying wing-backs wreak havoc against Portugal

Portugal vs Germany - UEFA Euro 2020: Group F
Portugal vs Germany - UEFA Euro 2020: Group F

The key to Germany's dominance against Portugal was their marauding wing-backs. Both Joshua Kimmich and Robin Gosens put on world-class performances. They caused the Portugal defenders problems with their movements, and the duo also sizzled while defending.

One of the two wing-backs was involved in each of the four goals Germany scored against Portugal. The cross, played by Robin Gosens into the box, was put in by Ruben Dias for Germany's first goal. A few minutes later, Joshua Kimmich's cross deflected off Raphael Guerreiro to give Germany the lead.

Gosens assisted Kai Havertz for Germany's third goal of the game before he converted a pass from Joshua Kimmich for the fourth. Both players looked out of sorts against France while attacking, but they were dangerous every time they pushed forward to join the attack against Portugal.

Joachim Low will hope for more such performances from both players. Germany will need both wing-backs to perform at this level to make a deep run at Euro 2020.


#5 Euro 2020's Group of Death comes alive

Portugal vs Germany - UEFA Euro 2020: Group F
Portugal vs Germany - UEFA Euro 2020: Group F

Group F was considered the Group of Death, considering the teams that were clubbed in it. After matchday one, it seemed France and Portugal would finish as the top two in the group. However, matchday two has changed the complexion of the group.

Germany looked down and out after their loss against France, but could now top the group if they win against Hungary and France fail to win against Portugal. Earlier in the day, Les Bleus were held to a 1-1 draw by Hungary, who got off the mark at the tournament.

Now with all four teams in contention to reach the Round of 16, Group F is poised for a tantalising finish on matchday three. Portugal will hope their title defence doesn't end on a whimper against France, who will look to get back to winning ways. Meanwhile, Germany, who have come roaring back into contention, will look to continue their good form against Hungary, who eked out a creditable draw against Les Bleus.

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