Portugal lined up in a 4-3-3 formation with a strong midfield presence, allowing them to control possession and dictate the pace of the game. The trio of Maniche, Deco, and Costinha provided both defensive stability and attacking support through clever interplay. The Dutch mirrored them with their own 4-3-3, relying heavily on the width provided by Robben and Kuyt. The first half showcased Portugal's solid defense and fluid ball retention, culminating in Maniche's long-range strike in the 23rd minute, which was a result of quick passing and fluid movement around the Dutch defenders. Both teams struggled to maintain discipline, resulting in a record number of cards, showcasing the tension and competitiveness of the match. The Dutch attempted to respond after going a goal down, but they found it challenging to penetrate Portugal's well-organized defense, often attempting to play through the flanks where they were met with resolute defending. Manager Felipe Scolari’s decision to place Figo in a more advanced role allowed Portugal to exploit gaps in the Dutch backline, ultimately ensuring Portugal's passage to the quarter-finals despite the chaotic nature of the match.