08/09 Football Predictions: Portugal vs Scotland – Nations League

Portugal began their UEFA Nations League campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Croatia, with Cristiano Ronaldo netting his 900th career goal. Now, Roberto Martinez’s side looks to continue their winning start against Scotland, who suffered a crushing 3-2 defeat against Poland in their opener. 

Portugal, ranked #8 in the world, are among the favorites to reach the final stages of the competition, while Scotland, ranked #48, are struggling to find form. This encounter at Estadio da Luz offers Portugal a prime opportunity to secure back-to-back victories and consolidate their position at the top of the group. With a superior head-to-head record and an impressive home record in the Nations League, Portugal are the clear favorites, but Scotland’s resilience could make for a tricky contest.

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Portugal vs Scotland H2H/Stats 

  • Portugal have never conceded more than once in a Nations League home game.
  • Portugal have won 4 and drawn 2 in their last 6 encounters with Scotland.
  • Portugal’s last 5 Nations League matches have alternated between wins and losses.
  • Scotland have only won 1 of their last 13 internationals (D4, L8).
  • Scotland have failed to score in 4 of their last 5 Nations League away games.
  • Scotland’s last win against a top-10 FIFA ranked side came in 2007.

Portugal vs Scotland Team News

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has a wealth of attacking options at his disposal and could rotate his squad for this fixture. With Pedro Goncalves and Francisco Trincao pushing for starts, Martinez may opt to refresh his forward line, though Cristiano Ronaldo is almost certain to retain his place after his match-winning goal against Croatia. The versatile Diogo Dalot, who scored against Croatia, could again feature in a back four or three, depending on the tactical setup. Martinez’s tactical flexibility could see changes across the pitch as Portugal aim to secure maximum points from this home double-header.

  • Injuries/Suspensions: None reported.
  • Notable inclusions: Pedro Goncalves, Francisco Trincao, Rafael Leao, Joao Neves.

Scotland manager Steve Clarke is facing some key absences as he prepares his side for a tough outing in Lisbon. The loss of striker Che Adams to injury means that either Lyndon Dykes or Lawrence Shankland will lead the line, while Billy Gilmour and Scott McTominay are expected to carry much of the creative burden in midfield. Clarke could stick with a similar lineup to the one that narrowly lost to Poland, though Scotland’s defensive frailties remain a concern, particularly against a high-powered Portugal attack.

  • Injuries/Suspensions: Che Adams (withdrawn due to injury), Kieran Tierney (out).
  • Notable inclusions: Lyndon Dykes, Billy Gilmour, Scott McTominay.

Probable Line-Up

Portugal XI: Costa; Dalot, Dias, A. Silva, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha; B. Silva, Fernandes, Leao; Ronaldo.

Scotland XI: Gunn; Ralston, Hanley, McKenna, Robertson; McClean, Gilmour; McGinn, McTominay, Christie; Dykes.

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Verdict 

Portugal are overwhelming favorites in this match, boasting superior depth, form, and a strong defensive record at home. Cristiano Ronaldo’s hunger for goals, coupled with a talented supporting cast in Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leao, will be too much for Scotland to handle. Scotland’s struggles in front of goal, especially against top-tier teams, add to their uphill battle. Expect Portugal to dominate possession and create numerous chances, while Scotland may rely on counter-attacks but struggle to break through a well-organized Portuguese defense.

Portugal to Win

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Under 2.5 Goals

Reason: Portugal’s defensive record at home in the Nations League and Scotland’s struggles in attack suggest a low-scoring game.

Cristiano Ronaldo to score anytime

Reason: With Ronaldo in fine form after his 900th career goal, backing him to find the net again is a good option.

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Betting Tips Today  👇 

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Today’s football predictions include a variety of popular betting markets, such as Betting Tips 1X2, both teams to score, and over 2.5 Predictions. Each prediction is carefully crafted, focusing on must-win teams and featuring accumulator tips and safe bets over 1.5 goals.

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Betting Tips 1X2

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Over 2.5 Predictions

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Accumulator tips

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