Portugal cruised into the last 16 of Euro 2024 as Group F winners with a commanding 3-0 victory over a beleaguered Turkey side at the BVB Stadion Dortmund on Saturday, June 22.




The impressive Euro 2016 winners deservedly took the lead when Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva scored his first goal at a European Championship, thumping a deflected cross from Nuno Mendes beyond goalkeeper Altay Bayindir from 10 yards out at the 21-minute mark.

A promising day worsened for Vincenzo Montella's Turkey seven minutes later. Bayindir came out to collect a simple pass from Samet Akaydin, but Akaydin needlessly turned the ball into his own net without looking, the back pass crossing the line well before his teammates could clear it.

The game was effectively over by that point, but Turkey's self-destructive defense was exposed again in the 55th minute. Cristiano Ronaldo beat the offside trap and squared the ball for Bruno Fernandes, who tapped in the third goal, completing Turkey's day of misery.

Roberto Martinez's side has advanced to the knockout phase with a game to spare, as they prepare to face Georgia on Wednesday night. Meanwhile, Turkey will need at least a point against the Czech Republic to secure their passage to the last 16.

Talking Point: Portugal Join the Euro 2024 Party

Much has been made of host nation Germany and Spain's performances, showcasing genuine quality and pace, but this was the night when Portugal demonstrated their own class and potential to make a strong push for the title.

Having conquered Europe in 2016, Portugal knows how to succeed in this competition. They now have the luxury of resting key players in their final Group F match against Georgia before the pressure intensifies in the knockout phase.

With the dynamic Manchester City playmaker Bernardo Silva leading the charge against Turkey, Portugal displayed a wonderful sense of self-expression that will make them a formidable opponent in the tournament.