Portugal vs Czech Republic

Estádio José Alvalade plays host to a top-table UEFA Nations League Group A2 six-pointer between Portugal and the Czech Republic.

Portugal’s 2022/23 Nations League campaign got off and running as they netted three first-half goals in a 4-0 thrashing of Switzerland last time out. After drawing 1-1 with Spain in their Group A2 curtain-raiser, Fernando Santos’ men will take the field unbeaten in four matches (W3, D1) since a 2-1 home defeat to Serbia in November 2021. The ‘Selecao’ will feel confident about maintaining their upturn in form, having won both competitive H2Hs in the 21st century by an aggregate score of 4-1. Adding to Portugal’s confidence, they have won six of their seven home internationals since exiting Euro 2020 last summer (L1), prevailing by multi-goal margins in five. Indeed, after losing to Serbia, Cristiano Ronaldo and co have netted an average of three goals across their last three home wins.

On the other hand, the Czech Republic have scored on either side of half-time in both Group A2 matches but only won once (D1). Indeed, after a 2-1 triumph over Switzerland in their Nations League opener, the Czechs were pegged back twice in a 2-2 draw with Spain last time out. After defying underdog status in both group matches since earning promotion to League A, the visitors will hope to plug their defensive leaks. Jaroslav Silhavy’s men have conceded precisely once in their five Nations League away games to date (W3, D2). The Czechs’ hopes of success will hinge on the way they start the game, with their five previous away fixtures in the competition since the winner on the day opens the scoring.