Ronaldo scare for France’s title bid

Euro 2016 would be remembered as a tournament, where long standing records were shattered. Germany’s first win over Italy in a major tournament, France winning over Germany to break their losing streak and the list goes on. Going by it, can Cristiano Ronaldo etch his name in the annals of football history as the best footballer of his generation, by beating France – a feat the Portuguese haven’t managed since 1975? The Euro 2016 final, nevertheless promises to be an exciting affair. It cannot be as entertaining as France vs Germany semifinal, considering the defensive style of play of both the teams, but the very presence of stars like Ronaldo, Paul Pogba and Antoine Griezmann will make it an intriguing contest. Ronaldo goal exploits in the tournament tied him up with Michel Platini as the top scorer of the Euros and he will look to score against France. Despite boasting of exciting players like Renato Sanches, Joao Mario and Nani, the Portuguese played passive defensive football in the run up to the final. Coach Fernando Santos’ 4-4-2 diamond formation has proved successful and it is unlikely that they will change the system. They have brilliantly shut down the passing lines against Wales and will look to take inspiration from the semifinal performance. The return of defensive midfielder William Carvalho from suspension will be a massive boost to the Portuguese and he will be tasked with the duty of marking Griezmann. However, defender Pepe’s fitness is a concern and latest reports suggest that he will be doubtful for the final. Meanwhile, France has everything play for in the final, as it would be played in the stadium, where explosion took place in November, 2015. The scarring memories of the Paris explosions are still haunting the nation and a Euro cup win will be something that can be savoured to tide over horrific experience. Shifting from 4-3-3 to 4-3-2-1 and playing Griezmann in the hole was a tactical master stroke from Coach Didier Deschamps. They looked brilliant on the counter and Giezmann was nothing short of sensational in his previous three outings. However, he will face a tough challenge against Portuguese, who will look to man mark him. Pogba, who was much talked about in the run up to the tournament has not performed to his billing. The midfielder, who is coveted by both Manchester United and Real Madrid, was below par in his performances and will look to make impact when it matters – in the final. Both, France and Portugal play similar brand of football, dig deep defend and break on the counter. It would be an interesting contest as who will hold their nerves. France is the favourite, but Ronaldo has the penchant of playing Villain for the opposition and it remains to be seen whether he can do it at the bigger stage.