UEFA Nations League: Portugal vs Scotland Match Preview, Odds, and Betting Tips

Game Preview

Portugal heads into this UEFA Nations League match after a 2-1 win over Croatia, with goals from Diogo Dalot and Cristiano Ronaldo. Scotland, however, suffered a 3-2 defeat against Poland, despite solid performances from Billy Gilmour and Scott McTominay.

Portugal has been dominant at home, while Scotland has struggled in recent matches. Portugal’s attacking form, led by Ronaldo, combined with Scotland’s defensive issues, sets up a potential high-scoring game.

Key Stats & Insights

  • Portugal’s Recent Form: 8 wins and 2 losses in their last 10 competitive games, averaging 2.5 goals per match.
  • Scotland’s Struggles: 3 wins, 4 losses, and 3 draws in their last 10 competitive games, conceding 1.8 goals per match on average.
  • Head-to-Head: Portugal has won 4 of their last 5 matches against Scotland, including a 3-1 victory in 2018.

Team Form and Performance

Portugal has been consistent, especially at home, scoring at least two goals in 9 of their last 10 home games. They control possession and create a lot of chances. In contrast, Scotland has lost 3 of their last 4 games, struggling defensively and conceding late goals.

Head-to-Head Records

Portugal has historically dominated Scotland, with an 8-4 head-to-head record, and they’ve scored at least two goals in three consecutive wins over the Scots.

Player Form and Availability

Portugal: Cristiano Ronaldo, with 6 goals in his last 10 games, is the key man. Bruno Fernandes leads with 4 assists, and the team’s defense, led by Ruben Dias, has been solid, with 5 clean sheets in the last 10 games.

Scotland: Scott McTominay has been Scotland’s standout player with 5 goals in his last 10 games. However, their defensive frailty has been a concern, conceding in 5 of their last 6 matches.

Predicted Lineups

  • Portugal (4-3-3): Diogo Costa; Diogo Dalot, Ruben Dias, Antonio Silva, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes; Rafael Leao, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Neto.Key Insight: Portugal’s high pressing and attacking width, particularly with Mendes and Dalot, will push Scotland’s defensive line deep, allowing Ronaldo and Leao to exploit spaces.
  • Scotland (3-5-2): Angus Gunn; Scott McKenna, Grant Hanley, Ryan Porteous; Andrew Robertson, Billy Gilmour, John McGinn, Kenny McLean, Anthony Ralston; Scott McTominay, Lyndon Dykes.Key Insight: Scotland’s reliance on wing-backs and McTominay for transitions will be tested heavily against Portugal’s control in midfield and wide play.

Market Analysis (Odds)

  • Portugal Win: 1.25 (80% chance)
  • Draw: 6.00 (16.7% chance)
  • Scotland Win: 15.00 (6.7% chance)

The odds heavily favor Portugal, with bookmakers predicting a straightforward win. The over/under market shows strong support for Over 2.5 goals at -152, as both teams have seen high-scoring games recently.

Check the latest odds at our trusted sportsbooks in India: 10Cric

Predictions

  • Final Score Prediction: Portugal 3-0 Scotland
  • Best Bet: Over 2.5 Goals @ -152

Given Portugal’s dominant home form and Scotland’s recent defensive struggles, a comfortable Portugal win seems likely. Backing Ronaldo to score and Portugal to win to nil offers value.