Two giants are facing off in the second Round of 16 match as both star studded teams look to progress
Uruguay vs. Portugal is one of the biggest matches in the Round of 16. The two clubs are loaded in attack and have more than enough weapons to put on a show.
Uruguay was one of only three teams to boast a perfect record in the group stage. With five goals scored and zero conceded, the South American nation is heading into this match with plenty of confidence and momentum.
Their recent 3-0 win over host country Russia saw both Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani get on the scoresheet. The two strikers will be pivotal against Portugal as they look to break down their creaky defense.
Portugal had a bumpier group stage, winning just one of their three matches. Their 3-3 draw against Spain was one of the matches of the group stage, showcasing both their ability to fight back and defensive troubles.
The 1-1 draw against Iran was not the best way to end the group stage, but they advanced nonetheless. Now, they will need to turn on the flair to get past a tough Uruguay team.
How they will line up
Uruguay has sported a conventional 442 formation in all three matches they played. The strong defensive duo of Diego Godin and Jose Giminez shut down the opposition for the first two matches.
An injury forced Giminez to the sidelines for the Russia match, but veteran Sebastian Coates stepped in and filled his spot adamantly. Giminez should be fit for the match against Portugal as he returned to training a few days ago.
The two up top, Suarez and Cavani, will continue to lead the line for Uruguay. Suarez has scored in the last two matches and is certainly catching form at just the right time. Cavani is still missing his fair share of chances, but a goal against Russia is just what the PSG forward needed to regain his confidence.
As for Portugal, they also play a 442 that shifts and moves as they attack and defend.
The reliance on the right midfielder, whether it be Quaresma or Bernardo Silva, to push up and join the attack is crucial for the team. Quaresma has been the more influential player, scoring a breathtaking trivela against Iran.
The focus will still be on Ronaldo up top, with Goncalo Guedes likely partnering him in attack. Ronaldo has scored four goals this World Cup and looks to be in fantastic form. A dominant performance against Uruguay is required to help his team advance.
Predictions
This is such a fascinating match to have so early in the Round of 16. On paper, Uruguay has a much weaker midfield in terms of star power. Their fullbacks are also not as well known, with the main focus being their strikers and central defenders.
Those four positions have carried the team this far, but winning matches in the knockout phase takes a total team effort. Uruguay cannot let themselves get bullied in the midfield by the stronger Portugal players.
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William Carvalho will particularly be one to keep an eye on in this match. The way he takes control in the midfield can often be devastating for the opposition as he dictates ball movement and creates openings.
The fullbacks for Portugal need to be conscientious of Suarez and Cavani throughout the match. Both players possess a world class quality in finding space after ghosting the defenders. Their movement can create real havoc in the Portugal backline if they are not careful.
This could very well be another shootout for Portugal if their defenders get outclassed like they did against Spain. Suarez and Cavani are deceptively quick so Jose Fonte and Pepe will need to give themselves and extra step or two to stay with their man.
If group play is anything to go by, Uruguay is looking like the favorite in this match. However, when Cristiano Ronaldo plays in a meaningful match, a whole different beast is awakened on the field.
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Which team do you think will come out on top?