Friendly football match between Portugal and Ireland will take place on Tuesday, 11 June.
The Portuguese team has played four friendly matches this year, alternating between victories and defeats. They thrashed Sweden (5:2) and Finland (4:2), but suffered losses against Slovenia (0:2) and Croatia (1:2). Portugal scores quite a bit, but many fans have already started criticising Roberto Martínez for the team's defensive laxity, which is well-deserved. A team of this calibre simply cannot afford such mistakes. The squad is stellar, but they still struggle to play effectively together.
The visitors didn't qualify for the Euros and are currently preparing for the Nations League. This year they have played three friendlies: a draw with Belgium (0:0), a loss to Switzerland (0:1), and a miraculous win against Hungary (2:1). Against Hungary, they preferred to play on the counter-attack, which paid off, but Ireland looked lacklustre and produced a boring match. The standout players are two Celtic forwards: Adam Idah and Michael Johnston.
Since 2021, the teams have met each other twice. Portugal has one victory (2:1), with one draw recorded (0:0).
Ireland is not the strongest opponent and rarely wins away, so Portugal should redeem themselves and win confidently here. However, I still believe the visitors will find their moment. I'll take: both teams to score – yes (3:1, 4:1 in favour of the hosts).
Comments0