Scotland vs Portugal Predictions

A 2-1 defeat to Israel in midweek has dented Scotland’s hopes of making the Euros, with their Nations League campaign getting off to a mixed start. Their draw in tier three of the Nations League pits them against sides who are more or less on their level, but despite that the Scots are preparing for those matches with clashes against significantly better teams. They have a chance to test themselves against Albania and Israel and fight for a Euro 2020 play-off place, so Sunday’s meeting with Portugal feels like a strange move on their part.

Even before the Israel game it looked odd, but in hindsight it’s a real struggle for them. They opened up September’s international clashes with a heavy loss to Belgium, but they dismissed the negativity by beating Albania. Their loss to Israel is now followed by a clash with the European champions. The chances of them pulling off a shock to cancel out their bad result looks pretty slim. Despite being just months into his tenure, Alex McLeish is under pressure. While he won’t be judged solely on matching the Portuguese, another defeat would be a blow.

Portugal could be about to add to their trophy cabinet, as they’re in a strong position in the Nations League. They have a double header of matches in November, so their future is in their own hands. They’ve made a perfect start with wins at home to Italy and away to Poland, and they are on course for the semi-finals of the Nations League. Beating Scotland would only add to the morale boost from their post-World Cup form.

The Portuguese have drawn with finalists Croatia, and beaten two top sides in competitive matches. That’s all come without Cristiano Ronaldo, who has sat out from their matches after Russia. They are clearly doing well without him, and they’ve been impressive in their recent games. Meanwhile, Scotland have lost four of their last five matches. They’ve been beaten in three of their last four at home, so we’re backing Portugal to claim a win here.

The visitors have seen Andre Silva score in back to back internationals, and he’s been pointed to as the main man in the post Ronaldo-era. He’s scored seven times for Sevilla in eight games this season, and after stepping up for his national side he’s a decent bet to score in this clash. We’re going for Silva to score anytime alongside an away win.