Five ways Portugal can defeat France in the Euro 2016 final

To win Euro 2016, Portugal needs to find effective countermeasures against Griezmann, Payet, Giroud, and at the same time exploit France's weakness on the left wing.

In the upcoming final, Portugal is considered the "underdog" compared to the host France. But according to Marca (Spain), things could change, if coach Fernando Santos finds a way to realize the following plans.

Risk using Pepe. Center-back Pepe has been in top form since the start of the tournament. In the round of 16 and quarter-finals, the Real Madrid star played a decisive role in defense. After having to sit out the semi-final due to injury, Pepe could return to increase Portugal's safety. Against an opponent as powerful as France, Portugal needs a top-notch experienced center-back.

Pepe will be in better shape after resting the semi-final. Photo: Reuters

Don't let Giroud turn around. Although he has only scored three goals, Giroud is still one of the most important players for coach Deschamps. This striker has the ability to both dominate and move to create space for his teammates.

To limit Giroud’s effectiveness, Portugal need to target his weakness – his habit of turning his back to goal. In the win over Germany, Giroud had many situations facing the goal, causing many dangers for Neuer. Portugal’s defense needs to limit the striker’s space to turn and at the same time send a physically strong defender to cover him.

Don't let Payet dribble the ball across the face.. One of France's most effective players, Payet often poses a threat when he cuts inside from the left flank. This style of play has helped France score a series of goals in three group games and the quarter-final against Iceland. It was not until the match against Germany, when the opposing defenders limited his ability to cut inside, that Payet's threat diminished. If he can only run to the wing and cross, the midfielder fails to take advantage of his strengths of dribbling and finishing with precision.

Payet (right) was ineffective in the semi-final win over Germany.

Limit Griezmann's chances of participating in counter-attacksWhenever France has a chance to counter-attack, Griezmann is always the most dangerous player. This player has the ability to dribble at speed through the opponent's defense and knows how to choose a finishing position to score at lightning speed. This is part of the reason why Griezmann has scored six goals and is leading the race for the Golden Boot.

To limit Griezmann's chances, Portugal need to send a defensive midfielder to cover him. William Carvalho, who has just returned from suspension, could be an option.

Aim at Evra to attack. At 35, full-back Patrice Evra may not be able to maintain his form throughout the match. The star was a weak point for France in the opening match, when facing Romania's fast and technical players. To exploit this weakness, Portugal could use Ricardo Quaresma on the right wing. Ronaldo could even move to this wing to beat his former Man Utd teammate.

According to VNE