In their most recent match, Fernando Santos’s squad defeated the Czech Republic by a score of 4-0, while their Iberian colleagues lost their grip on first place with a 2-1 loss to Switzerland.
Team News
Portugal
- Portugal defensive end Cancelo will return from suspension for Spain’s visit, but Dalot did not deserve to be dropped after scoring two goals on matchday five, thus the Manchester City player might return to his left-back position here.
- If so, Mario Rui and Nuno Mendes would be relegated to the bench, despite the fact that Mario Rui assisted on Fernandes’ goal on Saturday, and Santos observed Cristiano Ronaldo’s face bleeding after a collision with Tomas Vaclik.
- Jota, who scored the game-winning goal against the Czech Republic after coming off the bench, is more than capable of filling in for Manchester United’s veteran number nine.
Spain
- Dani Carvajal and Diego Llorente did not make the team for Spain’s loss to Switzerland. According to Enrique, the two defenders were left out because they would have missed the match against Portugal if they were booked against Switzerland.
- A well-rested Carvajal should therefore replace Cesar Azpilicueta on the right side, and Enrique should strongly consider recalling Morata after Asensio was substituted at the hour mark on Saturday.
- Given the rapid turnaround, the Barcelona-themed midfield of Gavi, Pedri, and Sergio Busquets could also be torn up as Rodri and Koke return to a revitalized Roja squad.
Possible Lineup
Portugal : Costa; Dalot, Dias, Pereira, Cancelo; Neves, Palhinha, Fernandes; B. Silva, Ronaldo, Leao
Spain: Simon; Carvajal, Garcia, Torres, Alba; Koke, Rodri, Pedri; Sarabia, Morata, Torres
Prediction Analysis
Spain’s frontline did not perform well against Switzerland, but Luis Enrique’s squad has a flair for scoring goals, and they will need to put in their best effort on that front if they are to advance.
Such a strategy will leave La Roja susceptible to Portugal’s counterattacking speed, allowing the Selecao to seize victory and clinch a spot in the Nations League Finals.
Our prediction is Portugal 2-1 Spain