Seleção look to bounce back after Argentina loss 

Portugal’s U20 World Cup campaign suffered a setback after a 2-0 defeat against Argentina in Bielsko-Biala. The Seleção failed to take their chances and could need a result against South Africa to advance to the round of 16.

Hélio Sousa stuck with the same starting side that won 1-0 against South Korea, he might make some changes in Portugal’s final Group F match. Few are taking South Africa seriously, but that would be an error as the Amajita have matched it with Argentina and South Korea despite coming away with consecutive defeats.

• Portugal,
• Argentina
• 2019 U20 World Cup

Portugal 0-2 Argentina

Argentina now have a firm grip of Portugal’s Group F in the U20 World Cup after a 2-0 win in Bielso-Biala, Poland.

Portugal will rue some missed chances as Adolfo Gaich and Nuhuén Pérez goals gave Argentina an important win, although the performance of goalkeeper Manuel Roffo was more important in denying Portugal.

Portugal now need a win over South Africa to guarantee their progression into the knockout stages.

With the domestic season done and dusted in Portugal, attention has shifted to international football. As the young Seleção stars challenge for glory at the U20 World Cup in Poland, back home the senior side is preparing for a tilt at becoming winners of the inaugural UEFA Nations League.

Despite home advantage and welcoming back captain Cristiano Ronaldo – who sat out the group phase of the competition – coach Fernando Santos was keen to downplay the notion that Portugal were favourites to lift the trophy. 

Portugal got off to a winning start in Poland with a 1-0 victory against South Korea in Bielsko-Biala. The two top scorers from the successful U19 European Championship campaign combined in the 7th minute as João Filipe released Francisco Trincão who slotted home.

Hélio Sousa’s side were heavy favourites before kick off and many expected the 1989 & 1991 champions to record a convincing win. It didn’t eventuate due to a number of factors, primarily South Korea’s dogged five man defensive line and organised approach.

Next up are record six time champions Argentina who defeated South Africa 5-2 in Tychy. The South Americans were the beneficiaries of two VAR decisions in the space of three second half minutes, Fernando Batista’s side going 2-1 up from the penalty spot and a man up after Keenan Phillips received a straight red card.

Let’s analyse Portugal’s situation ahead of an important match against Argentina in Bielsko-Biala on Tuesday.