2018 FIFA World Cup – Uruguay vs Portugal Preview
AT A GLANCE
When? Saturday 30th June, 19:00
Where? Fisht Olympic Stadium
What channel is it on? BBC
Where can I stream the match? BBC license holders can stream the match online via BBC iPlayer
Are tickets still available? https://www.ticketbisevents.com/en/football-world-cup-2018-tickets/ca2171?afl=694JWFTART&gclid=CjwKCAjw3cPYBRB7EiwAsrc-ubpt4g60RCE1cxEY1qD29AUk7XLBVGrSrMV_EvR_BqvkoCzBoUdigRoCvlEQAvD_BwE
THE TEAM NEWS
URUGUAY
- Uruguay won all three of their group matches without conceding a goal and they saved their best performance in beating Russia 3-0.
- Tabarez made a handful of rotations for that final group game but he will likely revert to the side that started and beat Saudi Arabia.
- There were signs against Russia that both Suarez and Cavani were just finding something close to their best form which is ominous.
Predicted line-up (4-4-2):
Muslera
Varela, Godin, Gimenez, Caceres
Sanchez, Bentancur, Vecino, Rodriguez
Cavani, Suarez
Unavailable: None
Doubtful: None
PORTUGAL
- Portugal edged past Iran in a dramatic final group stage match as they come into the knockout phase looking to Ronaldo to inspire once again.
- Fernando Santos has slight injury concerns over Guerreiro and Gelson Martins but both should be fit with the former able to start.
- Joao Moutinho could come back into the side after missing the Iran match with Santos likely to prefer his experience over Adrien Silva.
Predicted line-up (4-4-2):
Rui Patricio
Cedric, Pepe, Fonte, Guerreiro
Ricardo Quaresma, William Carvalho, Joao Moutinho, Joao Mario
Cristiano Ronaldo, Andre Silva
Unavailable: None
Doubtful: Guerreiro, Gelson Martins
THE PREDICTION
This match will be an enticing tactical battle and quite possibly low on goals. Uruguay have arguably the best defence in the tournament so they will keep a close eye on Cristiano Ronaldo, and they will not have it their own way against the Portuguese defence so expect under 2.5 goals in this one.
