The World Cup round of 16 closes with Portugal vs Switzerland, with both sides fancying themselves for a good result. See Last Word on Football’s predictions and the best odds for the World Cup knockout tie, and find out the rift in the Iberian squad that could tear the side apart.
Portugal vs Switzerland – Predictions and Best Odds
Portugal Current Run of Form
The Portugal team have had an impressive start to the World Cup, winning the first two matches of the tournament. However, this was followed closely by a loss to South Korea which allowed Son Heung-Min’s side to force their way out of the group. This shows some of the clear vulnerabilities in the Portuguese side, with the team somewhat relying on personal moments of incredible ability rather than winning through the team’s structure.
Switzerland Current Run of Form
The Swiss have continued an excellent run of being reliable in international competitions, scraping through the group by securing a result against Serbia. Of course, a loss to Brazil was always a likely outcome, but victories over both Cameroon and Serbia were enough to secure tournament survival. Breel Embolo played a fundamental part in this victory, with his attacking flair on full display.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Chaotic Influence
Cristiano Ronaldo has reaped chaos at Manchester United and is continuing his reign of terror into the Portugal camp. The star player angrily gestured when being substituted, showing disrespect towards his coach in what was effectively a dead rubber of a match. The Ballon D’Or winner’s antics have annoyed fans to the extent that 70% of fans don’t want him starting against Switzerland. Ronaldo is ageing very poorly, retaining the belief that he is a global superstar without having the production to back it up.
Portugal vs Switzerland Prediction
We’ve seen in World Cups of the past that a fractured squad tends to struggle, with France being the prime example time and time again. This will surely harm cohesion in the Portugal dressing room, and a side with Ronaldo in it could make some fairly poor errors. A narrow Swiss win looks likely, but a united Iberian team could perform if reports of arguments are overblown.
Current Odds: Portugal vs Switzerland
Portugal are favourites to win at 3/4 with the Swiss being outsiders at 4/1.
Last Word on Football recognise Qatar’s human rights abuses and instances of corruption taking place throughout the nation and in the background of the World Cup. Learn more about some of the issues surrounding the World Cup here.
