Match preview
Portugal returns to play this week with another crucial UEFA Nations League match against Czech Republic on Thursday, 9 June and they are favoured to win.
Meanwhile, the Czechs who sit second in their group have made an impressive start to their Nations League campaign. They held Spain to a 2-2 draw last week and will have to elevate their game again in this match.
Portugal, on the other hand, has a stronger roster and has been in excellent form but will have to work hard to maintain their lead in the group.
The Iberian giants beat Switzerland 4-0 in their previous game and will seek to repeat the feat this week.
Against Czech, Portugal has a strong record – having won two of the three meetings between the two countries.
On Thursday, the Czechs will attempt to focus all of their efforts on success in the Nations League – or at least avoiding relegation to League B after coming so close yet so far to qualifying for the World Cup.
Portugal vs Czech Republic head-to-head
| Portugal | Played 3 times | Czech Republic |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Wins | 1 |
| 0 | Draw | 0 |
| 4 | Goals | 2 |
Portugal vs Czech Republic team news
Portugal manager Fernando Santos saw his team escape the match against Switzerland uninjured, despite such dominance at home, changes are unavoidable. Pepe’s 39-year-old legs may not be able to handle three starts in a row, therefore Domingos Duarte may be given a chance in defence opposite Raphael Guerreiro.
After coming in as substitutes on matchday two, Bernardo Silva and Rafael Leao will be hoping to start, while Diogo Costa and Rui Patricio will continue their battle for number 1.
In contrast, Czech Republic suffered an injury to left-back Jaroslav Zeleny in the first half against Spain, and his substitute, Jakub Jankto, was also forced out at the half-time break.
At this point, Silhavy is unaware of the severity of the duo’s injuries, but right-back Milan Havel could appear on the left wing.
Portugal vs Czech Republic prediction
The aggressive and upbeat attitude of the Czech Republic team against Spain should have a similar effect against a tired Portugal side, especially given Santos’ choices in the heart of defense.
However, the hosts have superb attacking talents even with a number of changes.
Therefore, we predict Correct Score 2-1 and 2nd half over 0.5 goals in regulation time.
Match Odds
| Portugal to win 1.42 Czech Republic to win 7.40 Draw, a whopping 4.75 |
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