The Seleção could lock down top spot in their U20 World Cup group today, needing a draw against Colombia to do so. Hélio Sousa’s squad have demonstrated that they are a force to be reckoned with in this tournament after convincing wins against Senegal and Qatar.
However, they will face a much more difficult opponent in Colombia, which is loaded with attacking prowess. The South Americans finished second at their qualifying tournament.
PortuGoal previews Portugal-Colombia.
The Opponents
Portugal should face their first true test against Colombia. Los Cafeteros are known for playing an attack-minded brand of football is not disimilar to Portugal. Their manager Carlos Alberto Restrepo spoke about his squad’s chances against the Portuguese.
“Portugal have a very complete squad that likes to control possession. They have many technically-gifted and well-rounded players. Possession will be key to winning this match,” he said.
“They [Portugal] have a style that is very attractive. We should use this as motivation. Getting a good result against this squad will be very important to us.”
Restrepo lead the U20 squad to victory at the South American Youth Championship in 2013. He was also at the helm when they were eliminated in the round of 16 at this tournament two years ago. He has also managed clubs in Costa Rica, Venezuela, Honduras and at home in Colombia.
Hélio Sousa spoke about Portugal’s opponents this week. “[Colombia] have several quality players that could change the game at any moment. They are very similar in style to us than our previous opponents.”
Tactical Breakdown
Sousa made two significant changes in the last match against Qatar. Ivo Rodrigues, who was left out in the first match, came in for Goncalo Guedes. He scored two goals, including one on a perfectly executed bicycle-kick. Francisco Ramos also replaced Raphael Guzzo in midfield.
Portugal have already clinched its place in the round of 16, however, Sousa insists that they will do all they can to win the final match and top the group.
“Our goal before this tournament was to play the last game in a position to win the group. We have scored seven goals, conceded zero - it's good for us. Now we hope to end on a good note and win the final game,” he told media after the Qatar match.
Colombia have yet to hit their stride in this tournament. They managed a narrow 1-0 win against Qatar in the first match. And they followed that up with a 1-1 draw with Senegal. But, Colombia still have everything to play for in their final match. They will need at least a draw against Portugal to advance, if Senegal beat Qatar.
Midfielders Sergio Villarreal, Jarlan Barrera and Andreas Tello will be key to Colombia’s success. Tello was especially impressive at the South American Championships. Colombia used a 4-4-2 formation against Senegal and Qatar with Santos Borre and Joao Rodríguez up front. They are also known for their strong backline. They conceded only five goals in nine match at the South American Youth Championships.
Probable Line-Ups:
Portugal: André Moreira, Mauro Riquicho, João Nunes, Domingos Duarte, Rafa, Tomás Podstawski, Francisco Ramos, Rony Lopes, Gelson Martins, Ivo Rodrigues and André Silva.
Colombia: Alvaro Montero, Jeison Angulo, Juan Quintero, Steven Lucumi, Davinson Sanchez, Alexis Zapata, Andres Tello, Sergio Villareal, Victor Gutierrez, Santos Borre and Joao Rodriguez.
By Rui Miguel Martins
For more from Rui (twitter: @futebolfactory) check out Futebolfactory.com.
