Spain and Portugal are set to compete in Munich on Sunday night for the UEFA Nations League trophy, with both teams aiming to become the first two-time champions. Following dramatic semifinal victories, this final promises excitement.
Portugal secured their place first, impressively defeating hosts Germany. Despite Florian Wirtz giving Germany an early lead, Roberto Martinez`s side responded strongly. Quick goals from Francisco Conceicao and Cristiano Ronaldo propelled them to their first final since their victory in the inaugural 2019 competition.
The drama in Munich was soon matched by the clash between Spain and France. The reigning European champions, Spain, surged into a four-goal lead, spearheaded by an inspired Lamine Yamal. France briefly hoped for a comeback after Kylian Mbappe`s penalty, to which Yamal replied with his own. However, a thrilling late surge, highlighted by Rayan Cherki`s excellent debut goal, saw France narrowly lose 5-4.
A victory for Spain would solidify their position as Europe`s leading team, defending the title claimed two years ago in the Netherlands. Portugal, however, would relish the chance to upset their neighbors.
Last Meeting
Encounters between these Iberian rivals have often been dramatic. Memorable recent matches include the stunning 3-3 draw at the 2018 World Cup and a tense 1-0 Spain win in 2010 en route to their World Cup triumph. More recently in the Nations League group stage, Alvaro Morata proved decisive. He scored early in a home game only for Ricardo Horta to equalize, but in Braga, Morata netted the winner in the 88th minute, securing La Furia Roja`s first competitive win in Portugal in 88 years.
Best Bets
Consider betting on Lamine Yamal to score and Spain to win. Yamal was exceptional against France, creating numerous chances. While Nuno Mendes is a capable defender, containing Yamal, especially given his tendency to perform in big matches, will be a significant challenge.
Predicted Lineups
Here are the expected starting lineups:
Portugal XI:
- Diogo Costa
- Joao Neves
- Ruben Dias
- Goncalo Inacio
- Nuno Mendes
- Vitinha
- Bernardo Silva
- Bruno Fernandes
- Francisco Conceicao
- Cristiano Ronaldo
- Pedro Neto
Spain XI:
- Unai Simon
- Pedro Porro
- Robin Le Normand
- Dean Huijsen
- Marc Cucurella
- Martin Zubimendi
- Mikel Merino
- Pedri
- Lamine Yamal
- Mikel Oyarzabal
- Nico Williams
Player to Watch
The player to keep an eye on is undoubtedly Cristiano Ronaldo for Portugal. As men`s international football`s record goalscorer, he continues to find the back of the net. Even without his goal against Germany, his performance was noteworthy. Portugal`s strategy often involves funnelling attacks through him, and he is eager to take shots, having registered seven in the semifinal.
Prediction
While perhaps not as wildly dramatic as the Spain-France semifinal, this match features two teams capable of scoring freely and conceding goals. The outcome is uncertain, but Spain`s consistency makes them slight favorites.
Our Pick: Portugal 1, Spain 3
