FOOTBALL
World Cup Predictions: Portugal vs Switzerland
Portugal and Switzerland will conclude the Round of 16 proceedings at the Qatar World Cup when they square off on Tuesday night at the Lusail Iconic Stadium.
Even though Portugal won their group, Seleção das Quinas will take the pitch on the back of a demoralising defeat against South Korea.
Contrarily, Switzerland can look back on a thrilling 3-2 win over Serbia in their final group fixture, which made sure Cameroon’s surprise 1-0 win over Brazil would not stop Team Nati from making it to the knockouts.
Portugal were on the course of securing the Group H top spot when Ricardo Horta put them ahead in the fifth minute against South Korea.
But a South Korean team fighting for World Cup survival proved too much to handle for Fernando Santos’s men. The Taegeuk Warriors scored twice to win the tie 2-1 and dent Portugal’s perfect record in the group stages.
However, the loss did not prove consequential as Ghana fell to a 2-0 defeat to Uruguay, leaving Cristiano Ronaldo and company at the top of the pile.
Santos will have to get his team selection spot on against a Swiss side that beat Portugal 1-0 at the UEFA Nations League a few months back.
Portugal did not make it past the Round of 16 since 2006. So, they should bring their A-game to the table if they are to end their World Cup misfortunes.
The Round of 16 has been an unsurpassable threshold for Switzerland as well.
They are yet to make it to the quarterfinals, despite playing in the knockout stage seven times in their World Cup history. But Murat Yakin’s men can believe they are the ones who can take a historic leap in their football history, at Portugal’s expense.
Switzerland have beaten Portugal, Spain, and the Czech Republic in competitive fixtures this season.
They also won two out of three matches in the World Cup so far and made life difficult for Brazil in their solitary 1-0 defeat. So, the Swiss are not here to make up the numbers.
Team News
Cristiano Ronaldo had a forgettable match against South Korea, but the 37-year-old will be back in the starting XI and get a chance to atone for his misses against South Korea.
Rúben Dias will return to the Portugal backline after being rested against South Korea. Diogo Dalot had his first World Cup start last match, and the fullback might get a recall because of his brilliant debut.
Otávio is yet to return to full fitness and might have to sit out another match.
Yann Sommer could not play against Serbia because of illness, but the goalkeeper is expected to return to action on Tuesday.
Other than that, Murat Yakin has no reason to change his starting XI as he has a fully fit squad at his disposal.
Our Prediction
Portugal should not have much trouble scoring against Switzerland, given their wealth of attacking talents.
But, they are equally vulnerable on the back.
It could be a frenetic affair, but Portugal might have the last laugh after a long fought battle.
We believe it will be a 3-2 win for Portugal after extra time.
Date: 7 December
Kickoff: 12:30 AM IST
Venue: Lusail Iconic Stadium
FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan! FC Goa secured a memorable 2-1 victory against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League at Fatorda Stadium. This high-stakes encounter ended Mohun Bagan’s unbeaten streak, marking a significant moment in the league.
Brison Fernandes opened the scoring for FC Goa in the 13th minute, assisted by Borja Herrera. His shot deflected off Mohun Bagan’s Tom Aldred, giving Goa an early lead. Despite pressing attacks, Mohun Bagan failed to capitalize on opportunities during the first half, keeping FC Goa ahead.
The second half saw Mohun Bagan equalize through Dimitrios Petratos’ penalty, awarded after a handball by Armando. With the match level, momentum shifted briefly in favor of Mohun Bagan. However, FC Goa struck again in the 68th minute as Brison Fernandes headed in Herrera’s precise cross, sealing the lead and eventual victory for the home side. FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan!
FC Goa’s defense stood firm during the closing stages, with Sandesh Jhingan and Odei Onaindia effectively countering Mohun Bagan’s attempts to find another equalizer. This win elevated FC Goa to third place in the league standings with 22 points from 12 matches, showcasing their strong form this season.
The match underscored FC Goa’s resilience and tactical discipline, while Mohun Bagan will aim to bounce back from this setback. Fans were treated to an exciting contest, reflecting the competitive spirit of the league.
FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant! The Indian Super League (ISL) promises an intense showdown as FC Goa faces league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant this Friday at Fatorda. With playoff positions at stake, both teams are set for a thrilling encounter.
FC Goa aims to break into the top three with a win, continuing their unbeaten six-match streak. Striker Armando Sadiku leads the Goa attack with eight goals in ten matches, while midfielders Iker Guarrotxena and Dejan Drazic add creativity. Young goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari’s three clean sheets in five matches provide defensive assurance. FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant!
Mohun Bagan, atop the league with 26 points, has relied on Jamie Maclaren’s scoring consistency and Greg Stewart’s midfield mastery. Although Stewart will miss the match due to injury, the Mariners boast six clean sheets this season, anchored by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.
Both teams have impressive records, with Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season. The match could define playoff aspirations as Mohun Bagan aims to solidify their position, and Goa seeks to climb the rankings. Fans anticipate a tightly contested game between two strong sides showcasing Indian football’s growing quality.
The match is critical for both teams’ playoff aspirations. FC Goa looks to capitalize on their home advantage and attacking prowess, while Mohun Bagan seeks to extend their dominance at the top of the league. With FC Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season, the battle promises to be a showcase of quality football.
Fans are eagerly anticipating this high-stakes clash, which could significantly impact the league’s playoff picture. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, ensuring a thrilling contest.
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 features a highly anticipated clash between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa at Fatorda’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday. Both teams come into this encounter in solid form, aiming to strengthen their campaigns at a crucial juncture in the season.
Mohun Bagan leads the standings with an unbeaten streak, registering seven wins and a draw in ISL 2024-25. Their defensive strength is evident, having kept six clean sheets. FC Goa, sitting fourth on the table, boasts a dynamic attacking style, with nine different players contributing goals this season.
This battle between Mohun Bagan’s resolute defense and Goa’s attacking versatility promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Goa seeks to overcome the league leaders and secure vital points to narrow the gap. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan looks to extend its dominance and consolidate its position at the top.
Key players to watch include Mohun Bagan’s defensive stalwarts and Goa’s offensive playmakers. Both sides have demonstrated their capability to adapt to challenging situations, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. With the mid-season point approaching, the match carries significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations.
Fans can expect an intense, action-packed game as two of the ISL’s top teams vie for supremacy. Mohun Bagan’s strategic discipline will be tested against Goa’s creative and relentless attacks. This matchup is a must-watch for football enthusiasts, showcasing the best of Indian football talent.
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