Portuguese Football in English
There is still a long way to go until the next World Cup tournament; however, preparations have started in earnest for many teams. On some continents, World Cup qualification games are already underway.
Whisper it quietly, but in the westernmost corner of mainland Europe, excitement is beginning to build as Portugal continue to show signs something very special may be in the works.
The fine form shown by Wolves forward Pedro Neto and Braga striker Paulinho have earned both players debut call-ups to the full Portugal squad for the decisive Nations League encounters against France and Croatia, and the friendly match against Andorra.
An illustration of just how strong the options available to coach Fernando Santos are right now is shown by the fact Eintracht Frankfurt striker André Silva misses out, despite his strong goal-scoring form in Germany and excellent record for the Seleção.
Portugal 3-0 Sweden
Portugal have boosted their chances of qualifying for the semi-finals of the UEFA Nations League after defeating Sweden 3-0, this Wednesday, levelling France at the top of Group A3 on ten points.
In a frenetic encounter, the Seleção’s front three, without Cristiano Ronaldo, made all the difference with goals from Bernardo Silva and Diogo Jota firming up a 2-0 lead going into half-time.
Jota concluded a memorable night with his second goal of the game in the second half, rubber-stamping Portugal’s authority on a 3-0 win.
Portugal remain on track to qualify for the 2021 UEFA European U21 Championship after two routine wins. Rui Jorge’s side beat Norway 4-1 in Estoril and won 3-0 in Gibraltar with three Group 7 matches remaining.
Portugoal's Matthew Marshall breaks down both matches and suggests some players to watch that could be flying under the radar.
France 0-0 PortugalThe Seleção revealed just how much they have improved in the four years since defeating France in the Euro 2016 final with a grounded, energetic, and well-balanced exhibition tonight in St. Denis.
Portugal quieted the host's significant attacking threats and managed to carve out several opportunities of their own in a tight contest befitting two titans of the modern game.
The eventual 0-0 result, though not worth celebrating at the present, maintained Portugal's unbeaten form in the group and leaves them well-positioned to again secure a UEFA Nations League championship playoff berth.
