Just a year ago, Portugal won the Nations League for the second time in their history. They then predictably topped their qualifying group, finishing ahead of both Ireland and Hungary. Their friendly matches were also solid: a draw with Mexico and several wins (though Rafael Leão was sent off against Chile). At the tournament, the favorite disappointed against DR Congo, conceding an equalizer after an early goal and finishing with a 1-1 draw.
Uzbekistan are making football history: they finished second in their main qualification group in Asia, tallying 21 points—just two less than Iran. However, before their debut, they lost their final warm-up games against Canada and the Netherlands. Against Colombia, they equalized after conceding before halftime, but eventually lost 1-3.
Roberto Martínez’s side averages 2.2 goals scored and concedes only one per match. The Central Asian debutant averages 1.1 goals for and 1 goal against per game.
Previous Matches: Portugal vs Uzbekistan
This unusual pairing will meet for the first time.
We do not expect a narrow win for Ronaldo and company here. The bet is on Portugal with a -1.5 goal handicap (odds – 1.65).
Portugal vs Uzbekistan: Key Statistics and Trends
Portugal have won three of their last four matches
60% of Portugal’s matches end with goals from both teams and an average total of 3.2 goals per game
Uzbekistan have lost three in a row
40% of Uzbekistan’s matches end with goals from both teams and an average total of 2.1 goals per game
Portugal vs Uzbekistan: Probable Starting Lineups
Portugal are expected to line up in a 1-4-3-3 formation: Diogo Costa – Nuno Mendes, Renato Veiga, Tomás Araújo, João Cancelo – Vitinha, João Neves, Pedro Neto – Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Cristiano Ronaldo
Uzbekistan is likely to play in a 1-3-4-2-1 formation: Yusupov – Ashurmatov, Khusanov, Abdulloev – Nasrullaev, Shukurov, Mozgovoy, Karimov – Uronov, Faizullaev – Shomurodov. Masharipov is definitely out, and Ashurmatov is doubtful.
