Early reckoning for top-ranked Belgium
Top-ranked Belgium and its golden generation faces an early reckoning at the European Championship against determined holder Portugal, which clawed its way into the last 16, on Sunday.
The contrast in progress could not have been greater with Belgium masterfully overcoming adversity to win all its group games, while a pugnacious Portugal saw its fortunes ebb and flow.
An extra day of rest was Belgium’s reward for topping Group B, having seen the talismanic trio of Kevin De Bruyne, Eden Hazard and Axel Witsel all return from injury.
It could be counter argued that Portugal is better prepared, having had to scrap against the likes of Germany and France.
Portugal has its own talisman in Cristiano Ronaldo, who needs one more goal to become the all-time top scorer in international soccer.
