Portugal vs. Spain: World Cup Analysis, Lineups and Predictions

This is one of the most anticipated fixtures of the last 16 round, with Iberian neighbours facing off against each other. Spain have improved the further they have gone in the competition, and last time out they beat Austria comfortably 3-0, remaining the only team to not have conceded. Portugal, on the other hand, survived a late scare to scrape past Croatia. This is a rematch of last year’s Nations League final with a place in the quarter-finals on the line. 

Team Update

Ruben Dias has returned to full fitness and is likely to start with Renato Veiga at centre back. Cancelo and Mendes will offer width at full back, and Mendes will have an intriguing battle against Yamal. Spain have confirmed the fitness of Yamal; Unai Simón will be in goal with the superb centre-back pairing of Cubarsi and Laporte, who have yet to concede a goal. The blend of Yamal in attack and Rodri’s defensive qualities gives Spain excellent balance. 

Our Match Prediction

These teams have faced each other many times over the years, with Spain coming out on top. The last time out saw Portugal win the League of Nations final against Spain, but we expect Spain to get revenge and head into the quarter-finals.