FIFA World Cup 2018: Portugal vs Spain- Match Preview
What's the story
Portugal and Spain will lock horns tonight in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. The two European heavyweights go into the tie with different moods. Portugal will look to make the most out of Spain's crisis after their manager Julen Lopetegui was sacked two days earlier. But we still think Spain go in as favourites and have an edge over Portugal. Here's our pre-match report.
Heavyweights
These two sides bring different contrasts
Portugal go into this encounter with no injury woes, whereas, Spain are sweating over right-back Dani Carvajal. Dani is nursing a hamstring injury. Alvaro Odriozola could deputize right-back if Carvajal is declared unfit for the match. Spain's campaign is in disarray after Julen's sacking. On the other hand, Fernando Santos will be feeling pumped up to get the right team in place.
Information
Situation in the Spanish camp?
Fernando Hierro is now in charge of the Spanish team. He stated that Spain have come to fight and that will be the focus. He also added that if he wouldn't have taken the job, then it would have been unforgivable.
Favorites
Spain go in as favorites against Portugal
Spain's composure and depth mean that they will look to get the job done against a strong Portugal defensive unit. Both sides are likely to go in with a 4-3-3 formation and Spain's mid-field is where they hold the edge. Portugal will need to stop the likes of David Silva and Andres Iniesta. Cristiano Ronaldo is the key for Portugal.
Numbers game
Stat attack - Portugal vs Spain
The two teams have met 35 times with Spain winning 16 of them to Portugal's 6. In 2010 World Cup, Spain had beaten Portugal 1-0. Ronaldo scored 15 goals and assisted 3 during Portugal's Qualifiers campaign. Fernando Santos, as a coach, has reached the knock-out stage in all three of his major tournaments. This is Spain's 11th straight World Cup.
Information
When and where to match the match?
The game is scheduled to start at 11:30 PM IST. The match will be telecast live on Sony Ten 2/HD (English commentary) and Sony Ten 3/HD (Hindi commentary). The game will take place at Fisht Olympic Stadium.