As Portugal and Poland gear up for their UEFA Nations League A clash at the iconic Estadio do Dragao, football fans are in for an exciting encounter on 16 November 2024. With Portugal sitting comfortably at the top of the group with 10 points and Poland trailing in third place with 4 points, this match holds massive implications for both teams.
Portugal, under Roberto Martinez, has been consistent, remaining unbeaten in the tournament and boasting a b home record. Their last five games have seen them score an average of 2.00 goals, and with star player Cristiano Ronaldo in form, they look formidable. Poland, coached by Michał Probierz, has struggled defensively, conceding an average of 2 goals per match, compounded by the absence of Robert Lewandowski due to injury.
The weather forecast suggests a clear sky, which is perfect for football. With referee Donatas Rumsas officiating, the stage is set for a thriller. While Portugal is the bookmakers’ favourite with low odds of 1.24 for a win, both teams’ need for points makes it a high-stakes affair. Our match prediction tips a bet on both teams to score, considering their b attacking capabilities and past encounters.
Portugal vs Poland Prediction & Betting Tip
Considering the attacking capabilities of both sides and the goals they’ve scored in recent matches, we recommend betting on both teams to score. Historically, even b teams have managed to find the net against Portugal, and Poland has shown resilience in scoring despite their defensive vulnerabilities.
| Portugal vs. Poland Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| Both teams to score: yes | 2.17 |
- Portugal has conceded an average of 0.8 goals per game in the tournament.
- Poland has scored in 75% of their matches this season.
- Previous matches between these two teams have often seen both teams scoring.
Given both teams’ need for points and their attacking setups, betting on both teams to score offers a balanced risk and reward.
Portugal vs Poland Odds
Let’s take a closer look at the betting odds for the upcoming clash between Portugal and Poland. Portugal enters this match as the bookmaker’s favorite with odds significantly in their favor. Poland, meanwhile, is considered a much longer shot for a win. Given the form and recent results of both teams, these odds highlight the expected dynamics. Both teams have a history of competitive matches, with defensive lapses making for potentially high-scoring games. While Portugal just needs a draw to secure their place, they are not a team to sit back, making an engaging contest likely.
| Portugal vs Poland Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Portugal | 1.24 |
| Draw | 6.09 |
| Poland | 11.47 |
These odds suggest that while a Portuguese victory is highly probable, the betting market also sees a substantial return for a stalemate or an underdog triumph, reflecting the unpredictable nature of football.
Portugal vs Poland Live Streaming
The UEFA Nations League live broadcast is present in India with the Sony Sports Network. The Live streaming of the matches is available on the SonyLiv website and app. Fans can watch Portugal vs Poland live streaming on SonyLiv at 1:15 AM on Saturday.
Portugal Team Analysis
Recent Performance: DWWWL
Portugal has been in impressive form lately, showcasing a solid performance in the UEFA Nations League. They are currently sitting at the top of the group with 10 points and are looking b. Portugal’s last five matches are as follows:
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Scotland | Portugal | 0-0 (Draw) |
| Poland | Portugal | 1-3 (Win) |
| Portugal | Scotland | 2-1 (Win) |
| Portugal | Croatia | 2-1 (Win) |
| Portugal | France | 0-0 (Loss) (3-5 Penalty Shoot-out) |
With an average of 2.00 goals scored per game in their last five outings, Portugal has been effective in front of goal. Additionally, they managed to keep one clean sheet, underscoring their balanced strength in both attack and defense. Their b home record, with seven wins in their last eight official matches, makes them a formidable opponent at Estadio do Dragao.
Portugal Key Players
Portugal’s offensive powerhouse, Cristiano Ronaldo, continues to shine as their top scorer with 3 goals. His impact on the game cannot be understated, often drawing the toughest defenders and creating opportunities for his teammates. Additionally, Bruno Fernandes adds creativity and vision from midfield, alongside the industrious Bernardo Silva.
Expect solid performances from defenders like António Silva and Nuno Mendes, who will be key in managing Poland’s attacking threats. Diogo Costa will be a crucial figure between the sticks, aiming to add to Portugal’s solitary clean sheet from the last five matches.
Expected lineup for Portugal:
- Goalkeeper: Diogo Costa
- Defenders: Diogo Dalot, António Silva, Tomas Araújo, Nuno Mendes
- Midfielders: Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, João Neves
- Forwards: Pedro Neto, Cristiano Ronaldo, Rafael Leão
Portugal Suspensions & Injuries
Portugal has several key players sidelined due to injuries, which could impact their performance. This includes notable absentees like Diogo Jota and Rúben Dias. Fortunately, there are no suspensions affecting the team.
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Gonçalo Ramos | Ankle injury | Late November 2024 |
| William Carvalho | Achilles tendon injury | Mid December 2024 |
| Tiago Santos | Cruciate ligament injury | Out for the season |
| Diogo Jota | Rib injury | Early December 2024 |
| Rúben Dias | Knock | Late November 2024 |
| Rúben Neves | Muscle injury | Early December 2024 |
| Pedro Gonçalves Pote | Muscle injury | Late November 2024 |
| João Palhinha | Groin injury | Mid December 2024 |
With these injuries affecting critical roles, such as in midfield and attack, coach Roberto Martinez will need to make strategic adjustments to maintain the team’s form.
Portugal Tactics and Formation
Portugal Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-3-3
- Key Forward: Cristiano Ronaldo
- Midfield Trio: Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, João Neves
- Defensive Strength: Concedes 0.8 goals on average in 4 matches
Portugal, under Roberto Martinez, is likely to field a 4-3-3 formation against Poland. With Cristiano Ronaldo leading the front line, supported by Pedro Neto and Rafael Leão, their attack remains potent despite injuries to key players like Diogo Jota. The midfield, consisting of Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, and João Neves, is expected to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities. In defense, Diogo Costa will feature in goal, protected by Diogo Dalot, António Silva, Tomas Araújo, and Nuno Mendes. This setup has helped Portugal maintain a b defensive record, conceding just 0.8 goals on average in their last four matches. This balanced approach combines a dynamic attack with solid defense, maintaining Portugal’s unbeaten run in the Nations League.
Poland Team Analysis
Poland’s Recent Performance: DLLWD
Poland has experienced a mix of results in their last five matches. Their recent form in the UEFA Nations League A reads DLLWD, indicating some inconsistency. They have not managed to keep a single clean sheet in these matches, highlighting potential defensive issues. Offensively, they hold their ground, scoring an average of 1.60 goals per game.
Their last five results are:
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Poland | Croatia | 3-3 (Draw) |
| Poland | Portugal | 1-3 (Loss) |
| Croatia | Poland | 1-0 (Loss) |
| Scotland | Poland | 2-3 (Win) |
| France | Poland | 1-1 (Draw) |
With notable performances like the 3-3 draw against Croatia and a solid win over Scotland, Poland remains a team that can surprise on their day, especially with b forward players like Piotr Zielinski leading their attack.
Poland Key Players
Poland’s standout player heading into this contest is Piotr Zielinski, who is also their top scorer in this UEFA Nations League A season with 2 goals. He plays a crucial role in the midfield, connecting the play and delivering both creativity and scoring ability. Alongside Zielinski, forward Kacper Urbanski has shown promise and could pose a threat to Portugal’s defense.
Expected lineup for Poland:
- Goalkeeper: Bartłomiej Drągowski
- Defenders: Kamil Piątkowski, Jan Bednarek, Jakub Kiwior
- Midfielders: Sebastian Szymański, Piotr Zielinski, Bartosz Slisz, Jakub Kamiński, Nicola Zalewski
- Forwards: Kacper Urbanski, Krzysztof Piątek
In defense, players like Jan Bednarek will look to keep Portugal’s formidable attacking lineup, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, at bay. Key individual battles to watch include Zielinski against Bruno Fernandes in the midfield and Bednarek against Ronaldo up front.
Poland Suspensions & Injuries
Poland faces several injury concerns heading into their clash with Portugal, which may impact their overall performance.
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Arkadiusz Milik | Meniscus injury | Late November 2024 |
| Pawel Dawidowicz | Muscle injury | Doubtful |
| Filip Marchwinski | Ankle injury | Late November 2024 |
| Matty Cash | Calf injury | Late November 2024 |
| Jakub Piotrowski | Unknown | Late November 2024 |
| Mateusz Skrzypczak | Muscle injury | Late November 2024 |
| Robert Lewandowski | Back injury | Late November 2024 |
With star striker Robert Lewandowski and key midfielder Arkadiusz Milik likely sidelined, Poland’s offensive options are significantly reduced. Matty Cash’s absence could also weaken their defense against Portugal’s potent attack. This array of injuries might force head coach Michal Probierz to rely on less experienced players to step up in this crucial match.
Poland Tactics and Formation
Poland’s Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 3-5-2
- Key Forward: Krzysztof Piatek
- Midfield Quintet:
- Right Midfielder: Jakub Kaminski
- Central Midfielders: Sebastian Szymański, Piotr Zielinski, Bartosz Slisz
- Left Midfielder: Nicola Zalewski
- Defensive Setup: A back three featuring Kamil Piatkowski, Jan Bednarek, and Jakub Kiwior.
Poland will likely adopt a 3-5-2 formation, aiming to bolster their midfield presence. Expect Piotr Zielinski to act as the heartbeat of the team, linking midfield and attack. Their strategy will focus on pressing high and using the width provided by Kaminski and Zalewski to stretch Portugal’s defense. However, with a shaky record of conceding 2 goals on average this season, their defense remains a key concern against Portugal’s potent attack.
Portugal vs. Poland Head-to-Head Statistics
Historically, clashes between Portugal and Poland have been tightly contested, providing interesting narratives. Here’s a look at some of their recent encounters:
| Home | Away | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Poland | Portugal | 1-3 |
| Poland | Portugal | 1-1 |
| Poland | Portugal | 2-3 |
| Poland | Portugal | 1-1 (Penalty shoot-out: 3-5) |
| Poland | Portugal | 0-0 |
Portugal has traditionally held the upper hand in these fixtures, boasting two wins in their last five face-offs. Their most recent encounter saw Portugal securing a commanding 3-1 victory away from home.
Venue and Weather
Estádio do Dragão in Porto, Portugal, is set to host this enticing UEFA Nations League A match. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this modern stadium can accommodate around 50,033 passionate football fans, providing an electric backdrop for the game. The weather forecast for match day predicts clear skies with crisp conditions. With a temperature of 5°C, high humidity at 84%, and light wind speeds of 1.27 m/s, players will need to stay warm and agile. Clear skies and cool temperatures favor a fast-paced game, allowing teams like Portugal and Poland to exploit their speed on the wings and aim for a high-tempo match. Expect intense midfield battles as the conditions offer almost perfect playing conditions.
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