Same Old Story For Scotland
Scotland come into this game after a disappointing 3-2 defeat to Poland at Hampden Park on Thursday night. Despite coming from 2-0 down, defender Grant Hanley gave away a penalty, which eventually cost them. It was just the same old story for the Scots, so near, but yet so far.
Time To Change?
For the Poland game, Clarke started with a lot of his old favourites with the likes of Ryan Christie and Scott McKenna. However, as the game developed, he made changes and bought on debutants Ryan Gauld and Ben Doak. Once they came, Scotland looked a better side, and they started to cause Poland problems.
The Midfield Key
Thankfully for the Scots, their talisman Scott McTominay was able to do us a favour. If you read my last preview, then you’ll remember I tipped him to score anytime at 10/3. Whatever it is, when he puts on a Scotland shirt, he seems to score. His new Napoli teammate Billy Gilmour also chipped in with a goal. Surely Clarke will start both of them again in midfield against Portugal.
Business As Usual For Ronaldo
Portugal, on the other hand, had a night to remember against Croatia, with Cristiano Ronaldo stealing the headlines. The 39-year-old bagged the 900th goal of his career, becoming the first player to reach that landmark as Portugal won 2-1. Questions were asked about Cristiano Ronaldo at the Euros and whether he was a passenger for the Portuguese National Team. I think he should make way, but as long as he’s scoring goals, then he’ll continue to justify his selection.
However, it’s just not Cristiano Ronaldo that Scotland will have to worry about. Portugal have one of the best squads in European football and have the likes of Bernando Silva, Bruno Fernandes, and Rafael Leao to call on.
It’s Going To Be A Long Trip For The Tartan Army
When it comes to my predictions in this game, I can only see a Portugal win. We’ve seen how leaky Scotland’s defence can be this year on several occasions. They conceded three against Poland and five against Germany, so it is going to be a long night for their defence. Portugal are currently EVS to win by over 2.5 goals, and I think that looks like a fair price.
Another angle I am also looking at for this game is a Bruno Fernandes assist. The Manchester United midfielder has bagged two assists in his last two games for the Portuguese on home soil. He’s currently 17/10 to get another with Rhino, which I can see happening again.
Portugal v Scotland Selections
Portugal To Win And Over 2.5 Goals (EVS)
Bruno Fernandes To Assist Anytime (17/10)