Of particular interest will be Portuguese midfielder Manuel Fernandes and English centre forward David Nugent.
Fernandes’ tournament got of to a difficult start as the midfield man helped his side to a hard earned point against Belgium.
Portugal were expected to be the side demonstrating flowing football but were often left wanting.
Fernandes looked shackled by his disciplined role in midfield, as he left most of the attacking play to messrs Moutinho and Nani. Despite this Fernandes had Portugal’s best opportunity, sending a sweet volley into the side netting.
David Nugent and England will be cursing themselves after failing to beat Czech Republic. Keiran Richardson missed a gaping open goal whereas Leroy Lita spurned the opportunity to snatch three points, skewing a penalty off the post in the dying minutes.
Fernandes’ second match of the tournament ended in disappointment following a loss to hosts Holland whereas Nugent will hope England can pick up a much needed victory tonight against tournament favourites Italy, who lost their opening game to Serbia.
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