Euro 2012 Schedule: Predictions for Czech Republic vs. Portugal Quarterfinal

The Czech Republic have overcome their underdog status throughout Euro 2012, but their giant-killing is about to come to an end. Portugal have the talent to win this tournament, and they are finally playing close to their potential.

Of course, it begins and ends with Cristiano Ronaldo's scoring ability and presence on the field. Prior to Euro 2012, he had been in a bit of a scoring drought for Portugal—at least by his standards—but he scored two goals against the Netherlands on June 17.

Ronaldo's rebound is bad news for the Czech Republic.

His teammates and head man have supported him, and it was only a matter of time before he exploded for one of those matches we knew he was capable of. There's a good chance he could have more to offer against the Czech Republic.

They have the luxury of all-world goalkeeper Petr Cech, but when Ronaldo is on, he can beat any defense and any goalkeeper. The encouraging thing for Portugal is that even though they haven't received stellar play from their best player—up to the last match—they have still found ways to win.

They have only dropped one match in group play, and that was their opener to Germany. The Czech Republic have had a similar run to the quarterfinals. Their only defeat came in their opener, a 4-1 thrashing from Russia.

They righted the ship to win two matches in a row, and now they are ready to face Portugal.

Realistically, they are overmatched from a talent perspective, and they are facing this team at a dangerous time. Portugal is defending, and their best weapon seems to have regained his aggressiveness and ability to score.

Ronaldo will lead Portugal to a 2-0 victory over the Czech Republic.

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