Spain vs Portugal: The Iberian War
Posted by Dominic Vieira
It’s not often we see a match between the neighbouring Portugal and Spain. The last time the two sides played was 6 years ago in the Euro 2004. They both needed to win the final group stage to qualify for the quarter-finals. Portugal won 1-0 thanks to a Nuno Gomes strike.
There is a social, cultural and historical rivalry between the countries and neither of them wants to lose. Despite both nations co-operating well over the past years and becoming close allies, that relationship will be non-existent tomorrow. The football rivalry between the two may not be at the same level as a Germany v England or Argentina v Brazil, but it is still an intense derby. Their pride and reputation is on the line and a defeat will be a huge blow to either side.
Spain vs Portugal is match which must be watched!
Cristiano Ronaldo will be one to watch, he hasn’t shined at this World Cup and needs to focus more on the team rather than himself. Hopefully he will finally emulate his club form for his country and drive them forwards. Furthermore, the only “strong” nation he has scored against was Holland in 2004. The pressure is on and the captain knows he must perform, but passing the solid Spanish defence won’t be easy.
It’s hard to pinpoint one top player from such a talented and complete Spanish team. Therefore, Portugal must watch out for the entire team as they are all dangerous and quality players. The likes of Iniesta, Xavi, Villa, Torres, Ramos and co will be a constant threat for Portugal and closing them down will be crucial. Spain are not playing their best football and Portugal will be their first fierce encounter, if they play at their top level they could thrash a weak Portugal. However, they have created many chances and scored few, their innefiency could cost them the result.
Portugal played fairly defensive against Brazil and that same approach may not work against Spain. Having said that, they have not lost a match in 16 months. Neither team will want to return home but there can only be one winner, despite being Portuguese I want the best team to win. Game on!
Expected Line-Ups
Spain (4-3-3): Casillas; Ramos, Puyol, Pique, Capdevila; Busquets, Xavi, Fabregas; Iniesta, Torres, Villa
Portugal (4-3-3): Eduardo; Ferreira, Alves, Carvalho, Coentrao; Meireles, Pepe, Tiago; Simao, Hugo Almeida, Ronaldo
The match kicks off at 19:30PM GMT
