Ronaldo vs Bale? Six other candidates who can seize the limelight as Portugal face Wales

Two titans of modern football come face-to-face this evening, as Portugal meet Wales in the first semi final of Euro 2016. Each lead by their respective talismen, Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, the world is expecting one of the duo to fire their nation to glory...

But, despite the Real Madrid teammates being the two single most expensive players in football history, many of their team mates have already made substantial impact during the current Championships in France.

Total Sport takes a look at the six candidates who could step up to the plate in Lyon and steal the show from the two super stars...

1. Renato Sanches - POR

The youngster lit up Marseille last week with a remarkable strike against Poland, in what turned out to be a tough encounter for the Portugese to grind down. After securing his big money summer move to Bayern Munich and snubbing Manchester United in the process, many eyes have been on the industrious midfield maestro. Having already showed a willingness to rise to the big occasion, Sanches could be the man to break Welsh hearts.

2. Hal Robson-Kanu - WAL

Fans across the footballing landscape are still reliving 'that' turn, which Robson-Kanu pulled off against the Belgians; rendering three defenders helpless before slotting past Thibaut Courtois. The forward has been an ever presence in this Wales team, playing a pivotal role in the qualifying process. Despite being currently without a domestic club, Robson-Kanu will be keen to be the man for the occasion this evening and, by using the open spaces provided by Gareth Bale, he may well have the opportunity to steal the show.

3. Ricardo Quaresma - POR

The man who has perennially been seen as a poor imitation of Cristiano Ronaldo, Ricardo Quaresma has stepped up so far this tournament when his Galactico team mate has not. Making an assist in Portugal's close fought draw with Hungary, scoring the decisive winner in extra time against Croatia and cooly converting the all-important final penalty in the shootout against Poland, Quaresma hasn't shied away from the big moments. Wales should be wary of the former Inter star entering the field with 'super sub' heroics in mind.

4. Joe Ledley - WAL

Ledley's dance moves have been watched thousands of times after the bearded midfielder strutted his stuff following wins over Northern Ireland and Belgium, but fans of the Red Dragon will be hoping a few more shapes can be thrown come 10 o'clock this evening. Ledley has a huge role to play, particularly with the absence of Aaron Ramsey in midfield. The Cardiff man could prove to be a game winner if he breaks up play and allows Joe Allen room to create.

5. Jose Fonte - POR

While the Portugal side haven't been credited for much so far this tournament, one thing they have received praise for is their defensive play. Southampton's Jose Fonte has been solid in his partnership with Real Madrid's Pepe who, despite his theatrical game play, has been one of the top performing defenders in France so far. With the high stakes Wales clash however, Fonte will be expected to keep a cool head around the often erratic Pepe, and haul his nation through as a result.

6. Wayne Hennessy - WAL

Goalkeepers are rarely looked at as potential game winners, but Crystal Palace stopper Hennessy could be just that for the Red Dragon. Though he has the imperial Ashley Williams in front of him, Hennessy will be expected to keep at bay the fizzing shots of Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani - two men who very much work to the mantra of 'shoot on sight'. Should the game come down to Penalties - an outcome which appears increasingly likely - Hennessy will have the opportunity to carve himself a place in Welsh folklore.