The countdown is on for the Euro 2016 Final which will feature the hosts France against the most unlikeliest of finalists in recent years , Portugal. While France have rallied on home support and some brilliant performances from the likes of Payet , Giroud and Griezmann. Portugal on the other hand have been really really luck on their way to the final. Here is the combined XI for Portugal vs France
Hugo Lloris
The Tottenham Hotspur stopper has been in inspiring form during the entire tournament, leading his team by example. He has pulled some really impressive saves coming into the finals and looks really sharp. It will be really difficult for Ronaldo and his boys to beat Lloris in Paris.
Bacaray Sagna
Sagna has been a constant threat on the French right hand side and also comes in handy at the back. The full back has been in fine form , and deserves his place in the squad.
Jose Fonte
Southampton defender Fonte only featured in the squad after the group stages , but has definitely made his mark in the past two games. He has an integral been part of a defense which kept two clean sheets in two games and has looked rock solid.
Also Read: 5 Things to expect from Portugal vs France
Laurent Koscielny
One of the main reasons for France’s appearance in the Finals is their defense. Koscielny has been the unsung hero for France at the back and has been almost perfect. He has dealt with everything that has come his way and will definitely look to do the same against Portugal.
Patrice Evra
Patrice Evra features in this defense dominated by France except for Jose Fonte. Veteran defender Evra also has displayed fine form in the tournament has has looked a constant threat throughout going forward.
Nani
Former Manchester United winger Nani , along with Cristiano Ronaldo has been the biggest performer for Portugal. He has netted two goals so far and is always a threat in attack.
Paul Pogba
Paul Pogba has had a fine tournament despite several speculations linking him to Manchester United and Real Madrid for a world record transfer fee. The 22 year old has shown signs of maturity in midfield and has been really composed throughout.
Also Read: Comic: Ronaldo eyeing first European crown!
William Carvalho
William carvalho missed the Semifinals against Wales due to suspension , but has done enough to make this team. He has been the dictator in the central midfield for Portugal and Fernando santos will look to his services again in the Final.
Dimitri Payet
Dimitri Payet has been absolutely brilliant. He was France’s main main in attack during the first few games and has netted three goals himself , including the stunner on the opening night. Payet’s form has been instrumental in France’s run to the Final and similar things are expected of him tonight.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Ronaldo is Portugal’s main man , if there is a doubt to anyone. He has been central to all of their attacks so far. His goal in the Semi Finals tied him with Michel Platini as the top goalscorer at European Championships and the former Manchester United man will be desperate to get his hands on the trophy after missing out on home soil 12 years ago.
Antoine Griezmann
Griezmann has undoubtedly been the best player of the tournament . He has netted 6 goals so far and looks a completely different man than the one subbed off after 60 minutes in the first game. He will look to confirm his golden boot tonight by adding to an already impressive tally of 6.
…And here’s how they line up
