Jose Mourinho's Prediction Comes True As Portugal Win Opening Euro 2024 Tie

Jose Mourinho had claimed even Portugal's reserves would be contenders for Euro 2024 and they relied on that strength in depth to beat a stubborn Czech Republic 2-1 for a winning start. Two substitutes combined for a 92nd-minute winner as Francisco Conceicao struck his first international goal with his first touch of the ball from Pedro Neto's cross. Another of those sent on by coach Roberto Martinez on Tuesday in Leipzig had also found the net, but Diogo Jota's header was ruled out for offside against Cristiano Ronaldo.

Portugal followed the path of England and France as all three of the pre-tournament favourites got off to winning starts, albeit in unconvincing fashion.

Ronaldo was as ever the focus of attention, but the Portugal captain endured a frustrating night. He will have to wait to add becoming the European Championship's oldest goalscorer to his collection of records.

Martinez's decision to stick by the 39-year-old as the focal point of his attack may come under closer inspection as the tournament progresses.

Ronaldo was dropped for Portugal's final two matches at the 2022 World Cup and replaced by Goncalo Ramos.

The Paris Saint-Germain striker Ramos this time never got off the bench, along with Barcelona's Joao Felix, to underscore the wealth of attacking talent on offer to Martinez.

"We are a country of 10 million but we have a huge amount of players in the (European) top-five leagues," said Martinez.

"That's a strength and a weakness. If you don't use it well, it can become 26 individuals trying to show their own thing."

'Ultimate example'

The Spaniard Martinez has plenty of experience of major tournament football.

He took Belgium's so-called golden generation to the World Cup semi-finals and Euro