Poland vs Portugal Prediction 30 June 2016

Portugal reached Euro 2016 quarterfinals as they failed to win a single match in full time. They recorded 3 draws in the group stage against rather mediocre opponents (Iceland, Austria and Hungary). Santos’ side managed to grind out the victory over Croatia on 117’.

It’s a bit strange why Portugal are considered as clear favorite in this clash. Poland have been playing more confidently. Nawalka’s men conceded only 1 goal in their 4 matches at Euro 2016. There was not a single time when Poland were trailing in this tournament.

Poland showed solid performance against monstrous Germany. No wonder they managed to tie Low’s team. They played spectacular end-to-end football against Switzerland in the round of 16. Nawalka’s side were just unlucky to concede amazing Shaqiri’s goal. It seemed Poland deserved that victory over Switzerland and they fairly proceeded to the next round.

Portugal is a different story. They failed to beat any of their opponents in the group, although they were considered as major favorite there. On top of that, they weren’t that great against Croatia in the last 16. It felt like Portugal stole that win over Cacic’s team as they did not indeed earn it. They were doing everything they can to stop Croatia.

We should mention another interesting fact. Although Cristiano Ronaldo is always dangerous for any opponent he managed to score just two goals in 12 knock-out games at Euros and WC.

All things considered, Portugal and Poland are considerably equal teams. Following Portugal’s pragmatic and defensive football, they won’t rush in offense. There is a high chance to wintess another draw in the first 90 minutes. Poland are not weaker than Austria, Hungary or Iceland. Moreover, both sides had tiresome games in previous rounds, they still have to save energy.