The European champions were defeated on penalties by South American representatives Chile in the first semi-final of the tournament, with Ricardo Quaresma, Joao Moutinho and Nani all failing to convert from 12 yards. It was a disappointing way to exit the competition - which is essentially what they did, regardless of Sunday’s play-off - but Portugal could have few complaints after a rather flat performance in regulation time. Fernando Santos will hope for a reaction from his team on Saturday, although it remains to be seen how motivated his players will be ahead of what is essentially a meaningless match.
Mexico were beaten by four goals to one in their semi-final, as Germany proved far too strong for the CONCACAF representatives in all areas of the pitch. It was a disappointing way for Juan Carlos Osorio’s charges to suffer elimination from the tournament, but they must now turn their attention towards Sunday’s test against Portugal, with whom they drew 2-2 in the group phase. Although both of these teams would much rather be taking part in the final, Mexico will still want to secure a positive result against Santos’ men; emerging victorious, indeed, would allow them to end the Confederations Cup on a positive note, which could be important as they look forward to the Gold Cup and upcoming World Cup qualification fixtures.
Portugal could ring the changes in this one, with Santos likely to hand game time to some of the fringe members of his squad. Cristiano Ronaldo has returned home following the birth of his twins and will therefore play no part in Moscow, while other experienced players such as Pepe – who missed the semi-final through suspension – and Bruno Alves will probably be left on the substitutes’ bench. The likes of Nelson Semedo, Jose Sa, Pizzi, Beto and Neto will all be hoping for a chance to impress, while Danilo Pereira, Bernardo Silva and Andre Silva will expect to keep their places in the starting XI.
Osorio may also be tempted to make wholesale changes to his line-up, although Mexico’s participation at the Gold Cup in the United States will not have an effect given that the country has named a completely different squad for the continental competition. Hirving Lozano is likely to return after being dropped for the loss to Germany, while Diego Reyes, Alfredo Talavera and veteran centre-half Rafa Marquez are among those hoping to be included from the start. Andres Guardado could also return to the XI after missing the semi-final because of suspension.
Taking everything into account, it is worth putting some money on Portugal coming out on top in Sunday’s encounter at the Otkrytiye Arena in the Russian capital. Even if Santos rings the changes as expected, the Portuguese possess enough quality to seal a victory in their final match at the Confederations Cup. In the anytime goalscorer market, meanwhile, it could be worth backing Andre Silva to find the back of the net.
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