Iberian 'friendly' to be closely contested
Reigning European champions Portugal host fellow giants and Iberian rivals Spain in a rearranged Wednesday night friendly fixture ahead of competitive action in the UEFA Nations League at the weekend. The first exhibition match in a decade will doubtlessly see some key players rested, but will be no less fraught and frenetic for it. Read our preview here:
João Félix to take centre stage
The likely resting of phenomenon Cristiano Ronaldo should facilitate another much vaunted player little over half the superstar's age to play a pivotal role in Portugal's first XI, even if for just this clash. Atlético Madrid forward João Félix has not had a stellar time since signing for the Rojiblancos for the fourth highest transfer of all time from Benfica. Nevertheless, his versatility and penchant for retaining the ball in a fluid front three for his country will be key to unlocking what is probably going to be an experienced back four marshalled by the evergreen Sergio Ramos. It remains to be seen whether the greater attention placed on him in a low key encounter will be the boost to his confidence that he needs, but he ought to be buzzing between the defenders with zest and purpose.
Teenage kicks
For the opposition, 17 year-old sensation Ansu Fati has arguably had slightly less pressure (without the burden of a gargantuan price tag) on his precocious shoulders. Despite the wealth of talent that comes through the youth ranks of both nations, even the most promising wonderkids rarely earn their first cap at such a young age, and he has already netted at senior level against Ukraine. On the left of an attacking triumvirate for La Roja, he will cut inside at every opportunity presented to him by Wolves' Nélson Semedo; the latter will be required to be at the very apex of his game to avoid a harsh lesson on the pitch.
Midfield dominance
There is no questioning the individual brilliance in both camps, but the strongest areas on paper for the friendly look to be in midfield. A mish-mash of the old and the new for each team, they will be relied upon to take the game by the scruff of the neck. Accurate passing isn't in doubt, but perhaps incision is. Portugal's overall record under veteran head coach Fernando Santos is formidable, and though there is little to be won but pride, he will be keen to see a measured display from his charges. There are goals to be had, and a score draw at odds of 4.33 with bet365 looks a fairly reliable bet to place.
