With only three games to go in the UEFA Euro 2016, the first semi-final is set to take place on Wednesday. That showdown will feature two of the most surprising sides in the tournament: Portugal and Wales
The Portuguese side gets to this match after eliminating Poland in the Quarter-final stage. Fernando Santos' crew hasn't been as consistent as expected, given that they have only been able to win a game: a 1-0 victory over Croatia in the dying seconds of extra-time.
On the other hand, Wales' form has been rather impressive. In their first major tournament appearance in 58 years, the Dragons werent' capable of beating England, but they have collected nothing but victories since that match. Their performance against Belgium was one of the best in the tournament, erasing the underdog label by beating a far more talented Belgian side with poise and style.
This will be the fourth meeting between these two teams. Portugal has won two of their previous three meetings, scoring seven goals while allowing four.
Portugal
A Seleçao das Quinas will try to put an end to all the controversy surrounding them, by finally winning a game during regulation. In order to do that, Cristiano Ronaldo & Co. will have to deal with the absence of William Carvalho, who was booked for the second time in the tournament against Poland. Furthermore, Real Madrid's center back Pepe could be ruled out of the game due to a thigh injury.
Santos will also expect his biggest star to finally have a decisive role in the outcome of the game. Cristiano Ronaldo hasn't been the driving force everyone expected, completing a number of disappointing performances in the competition. So far, the Portuguese ace has scored twice (both in the same game), but perhaps the semi-final scenario will end up motivating him to show the skills that have earned him three Ballon D'Or trophies.
Cristiano Ronaldo needs only one more goal to become the competition's joint all-time top scorer.
Wales
Chris Coleman's crew has shocked the world by winning their group and reaching the semi-finals after decades filled with disappointment. The Dragons have shown style, skills and strength, but they will have to make do without two key players in order to beat the Portuguese side.
Ben Davies and Aaron Ramsey will have to watch the game from the stands after being booked for the second time against Belgium. Ramsey's absence will represent a huge blow for the Welsh crew, considering that he is the tournament's assist leader. Arsenal's midfielder lifted some of the weight off from Bale's shoulders, and Coleman will the team to work as a unit if they want to overcome this setbacks.
Speaking about Bale, Real Madrid's wingman has been the go-to guy for Wales in most of their outings in the tournament. With three goals scored so far, his influence on the pitch has been the cornerstone for The Dragons' offense, and his contribution will be appreciated if they want to reacht the final match of the competition.
Can Bale beat his team-mates at Real Madrid and grant Wales a shot at the title?
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Where to watch Portugal vs Wales on TV or online?
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In the U.K., on S4C, BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC One UK, BBC iPlayer, BBC Wales, &TalkSport Radio UK at 20:00 BST.
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In the U.S., on ESPN Deportes Radio, ESPN, WatchESPN & ESPN Radio at 15:00 hrs EDT.
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In Canada, on TSN5, TSN1, TSN4, RDS, TSN3 & TSN Radio 1040 | 1410 Vancouver 13:00 hrs PDT.
Live elsewhere? Check out the Portugal vs Wales match page for detailed info to watch this game in your country.
*Please note that all live games, TV Schedules and online streaming info are subject to change.
Confirmed lineups
Portugal's lineup
Essa Força, leva-me à FINAL, Mata-me de Amor e Viva PORTUGAL... Os nossos 11! #Euro2016 #PORWAL #POR pic.twitter.com/kn2ZdzRosl
— selecaoportugal (@selecaoportugal) July 6, 2016
Wales' lineup
Match details, result and original broadcast info
This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.
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