Portugal vs Scotland predictions: Selecao to score at will
- Portugal averaged 3.6 goals per game during Euro 2024 qualifying
- Scotland have conceded 12 goals in their last five games
- Recommended bet: Portugal over 2.5 team goals
Scotland’s first foray into the top tier of the UEFA Nations League ended in defeat at home to Poland on Thursday and they face an even tougher task when they visit Lisbon on Sunday to take on Portugal.
Led by talisman Cristiano Ronaldo, who is fresh from scoring a landmark 900th career goal against Croatia, the Selecao are expected to cruise to victory when the Tartan Army come to town.
Team news
Roberto Martinez has no injury or suspension concerns, with Cristiano Ronaldo set to lead the line once again. Diogo Jota could come in on the right of the attack, with the other flank occupied by Rafael Leao and Bruno Fernandes acting as playmaker behind.
Scotland also have a full contingent available and Ben Doak could push for a start after impressing from the bench against Poland. Scott McTominay is expected to sit behind lone striker Lawrence Shankland, with John McGinn on the right wing.
The stats
Portugal averaged 3.6 goals per game during Euro 2024 qualifying.
Scotland have conceded 12 goals in their last five games.
Portugal have scored at least three goals in seven of their last 10 home matches.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 900th career goal on Thursday.
Prediction
Cristiano Ronaldo’s 900th career goal helped Portugal to an opening-day win over Croatia in the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League and the captain and talisman could make an impact against a defensively fragile Scotland on Sunday.
Steve Clarke’s Tartan Army almost produced a miraculous comeback in their meeting with Poland, only for a needless Grant Hanley challenge in the dying embers of the game to give away a penalty and leave Scotland empty handed.
All three goals Scotland conceded on Thursday were the result of their many defensive errors, and with the likes of Ronaldo, Rafael Leao, Bruno Fernandes, and Diogo Jota to take advantage of those mistakes, the signs do not look promising for the visitors.
The Selecao may have faded in this summer’s European Championship, but they scored 36 goals in 10 qualifiers and have netted three or more in seven of their last 10 home assignments.
Faced with a Scotland side that conceded three against Poland and five against Germany at Euro 2024, the hosts are expected to have a field day in front of goal.
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