Two sides that got their World Cup qualification off to the perfect start will meet in Serbia on Saturday evening. But, which of the nations will be able to maintain their strong start to Group A?
World Cup Qualifier Preview
Portugal will be looking for a much-improved performance this time out, as they were fairly fortunate to escape their opening night match with a victory. The European Champions were well below their best in that game, but were fortunate to get the three points courtesy of an own goal from Maksim Medvedev just before half time. Azerbaijan should take enormous pride from their performance in that game, but Portugal never really got out of second gear and struggled to create any clear cut opportunities throughout the match. Cristiano Ronaldo had two chances in the game, as he looks to match the international goalscoring record set by Pele, but both were well handled by the travelling goalkeeper. Portugal will not get away with being so lacklustre this weekend against a talented Serbia side.
Serbia were involved in one of the most entertaining games on the opening night of World Cup qualifiers, as they fought back from a goal down to beat the Republic of Ireland 3-2. Ireland took the lead in the game through Alan Browne, which was their first goal in a number of games. However, Serbia levelled the scores before the break through Dusan Vlahovic. Aleksandar Mitrovic’s introduction turned the tide in their favour, as the Fulham striker scored two goals in the final 25 minutes to secure the win. Serbia were forced to hang on in the closing stages after Ireland pulled another goal back. But, they were able to comfortably hold on to get the win in the game.
Serbia vs Portugal Head To Head
Serbia have never beaten Portugal in an international fixture. The two countries have met on six previous occasions, with Portugal winning three times and the remaining three games ending in draws. The last meeting came in September 2019, with Portugal running out 4-2 winners. Cristiano Ronaldo, Bernardo Silva and William Carvalho were among the scorers on that occasion.
Serbia vs Portugal Prediction
These two nations will likely be the ones that will be competing for the top two spots in the group. Portugal are still the side to beat, but they will need to be at their very best to beat Serbia this weekend. Judging by their performance on Wednesday night, we wouldn’t be shocked to see a draw this weekend.
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