Three key battles: Portugal v Wales

Portugal v Wales

Cristiano Ronaldo v Gareth Bale takes top billing, but the battle in the dugout and the contest in the stands will also be key. Our reporters analyse the first semi-final.

Cristiano Ronaldo v Gareth Bale 

 Ronaldo is Portugal's captain, leader and talisman. Despite not having been at his brilliant best in France (yet), he is still in the running for the adidas Golden Boot with two goals and two assists. Not bad going.

He is a proven big-game player and will no doubt have a decisive say if Portugal are to reach the final. Wales cannot hope he merely has an off-night; even when not at his peak, Ronaldo draws such attention from opponents that his team-mates – most notably Nani at this tournament – are afforded more freedom.

 Bale really has led by example here, contributing three goals, but it's his work ethic when Wales lose the ball that has really stood out. Passionate celebrations from the Real Madrid man accompany every goal and every win – because this is the stage on which he has always dreamed of representing his country.

A modest, ego-free superstar, Bale is all about team Wales. He is the face of this special moment in Welsh football history.

Renato Sanches has forced his way into Portugal's starting XI©Getty ImagesFernando Santos v Chris Coleman Santos's effective 4-4-2 diamond should be fruitful against Wales, the likes of Adrien Silva and João Mário helping Renato Sanches to find space between midfield and attack.

Danilo, who started the championship as first choice, should come in for the suspended William Carvalho. Portugal will not have to concern themselves with Aaron Ramsey, also banned, and could pose Coleman's back five a threat with their two strikers – a rarity at this EURO.

 Coleman fine-tuned his fluid 5-3-2 formation throughout qualifying and it looks to have been perfected at the ideal time. They are solid in defence, with energetic wing-backs Chris Gunter and Neil Taylor providing the width as well as defensive cover when required.

With Bale floating freely between midfield and attack, Wales have developed the tactical blend needed to get the best out of their players. That they have successfully adapted to the various challenges faced at these finals is testimony to Coleman's nous.

Supporters v supporters 

 France is home to the world's largest Portuguese expat community and at times it has seemed like the EURO is being played in Iberia. Clad in scarves, shirts and flags, Portugal fans line the streets outside training every day and always make the players feel welcome wherever they go.

They create an almighty noise whatever the score and the players have said on numerous occasions that they are determined to give something back. Victory against Wales would be the perfect reward.

The Wales supporters have travelled to France in their tens of thousands, and their collective belief in their side betrays a determination that this will be an unprecedented and happy chapter in the history of Welsh football.

The rousing rendition of the national anthem has set the tone for each match, and with an unwavering level of support for the team they have taken to their hearts, the players have responded with nothing but love for what they have christened the 'Red Wall'.