Conceição's last-minute goal secures 2-1 victory for Portugal over Czechia in Euro 2024

Earlier, Czechia took a surprise lead at Leipzig.

Portugal left it very late before grabbing all three points in their EURO 2024 opener against Czechia in Leipzig. Substitute Francisco Conceição proved the match-winner, scoring in the 92nd minute to give Portugal a 2-1 victory after a hard-fought contest.

Czechia had actually taken a surprise lead through Lukáš Provod’s excellent 62nd-minute strike from the edge of the area. However, Portugal equalized just six minutes later in fortuitous fashion as Jakub Hranáč put through his own net.

The game looked to be heading for a draw until Conceição pounced on a loose ball in the six-yard box, firing home from close range in the dying seconds. It was a cruel blow for Czechia who had defended resolutely for much of the match.

Portugal dominated possession throughout but struggled to break down their stubborn opponents. Cristiano Ronaldo went close on a couple of occasions but was denied by Aleš Staněk in the Czechia goal. The veteran keeper made a number of crucial saves to frustrate the Portuguese attack.

The introduction of Conceição proved decisive as Roberto Martinez’s side finally found a way through the resolute Czech rearguard.

For Czechia, it was a heartbreaking way to lose after putting in such a disciplined defensive performance. They remained compact and organized throughout but just could not hold out in the end against one of the tournament favorites.

Portugal will now look to build on this hard-fought win when they take on Türkiye in their next Group F match on Saturday. Czechia, meanwhile, must regroup ahead of facing Georgia, knowing points are a necessity if they are to prolong their involvement in Germany.

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