Spain and Portugal to battle to yet another draw
Spain and Portugal will clash once more in the Iberian derby in the first game of their 2022/2023 UEFA Nations League pool at the Estadio Benito Villamarín in Sevilla. Both will be joint favourites to top the group overall, and the opening match will closely reflect that. Read our preview here:
Gavi-ing a good time
Luis Enrique will be missing two of the most talented midfielders in men's football on Thursday evening in the forms of Pedri and Thiago, though he can also bank on some impressive depth to compensate for their absences. Carlos Soler and the highly seasoned Koke will come in, whilst the 17 year old sensation Gavi will help out in attack, supporting Álvaro Morata and Barcelona teammate Ferran Torres.
A high Ótavio
La Roja are likely to dominate possession, given Fernando Santos' proclivity to enact a safety-first, counter very much second approach. The much sought-after Rafael Leão is set to miss the opener, though like the hosts, A Seleção have an embarrassment of riches on the transition. With an XI replete with experience, the creative Otávio is a relative newcomer to the squad. The Porto attacking midfielder has only four caps but two goals already to his name, including an outstanding performance against Turkey in World Cup qualification.
Betting tip
Regardless of fans' perceptions about the Nations League, the players will be taking the games seriously. This should ensure that Spain and Portugal battle well and quite evenly, with bet365's odds of a draw with both teams to score at 4.80 looking surprisingly long, given the history and talent on display.
