Two Manchester United players were eliminated from Euro 2020 last night as Portugal lost to Belgium.
While Bruno Fernandes’ extra rest is the big positive to come from the result, the match itself provided an added look at Diogo Dalot.
After making his Portugal debut in the final match of the group stage as a late substitute, Dalot was preferred as a starter to Nelson Semedo.
It was a bold move and a great chance for Dalot to show what he was capable of.
So how did Dalot get on?
Dalot was reluctant to get forward and overlap early on, mindful of the defensive job he was required to do.
By the end of the game as Portugal pushed for an equaliser he was at one point the furthest man forward, winning a header and bringing the ball down inside the Belgium box.
He also won a tackle in the final third late on to bring possession back to Bruno Fernandes, but the United midfielder misfired with his cross.
Beforehand, there was a sense Dalot did not do enough. His performance was ‘fine’ without really offering a big case to say he should be United’s number one right-back.
Where it gets more debatable is whether United need to go and spend £25 million on Kieran Trippier and off load Dalot.
To play in an international tournament is a real feather in Dalot’s cap, and at just 22, he can use this as an opportunity to kick on. It could also put him in the shop window, and United will have to make a decision this summer.
Reaction
Here is a look at how United supporters reacted to Dalot’s performance. It was a mixed response…
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