The European leagues are taking a break while the World Cup playoffs are taking place. One of the most interesting matches is between Portugal and Sweden on Friday.


Portugal v Sweden
World Cup Playoffs first match
Estádio de Luz
15-11-2013 @ 19.45 UK








How are the two teams form?

Portugal ended the group stages second in Group F only a point after Russia while Sweden ended second in Group C eight points after Germany. Sweden have not won against Portugal in their last four meetings, however, the last three have ended in draws - two of them goalless.

What are the probable line-ups?

Paulo Bento has called up uncapped William Carvalho as well as the two injury doubts Fabio Coentrao and Joao Pereira. Meanwhile, Swedens Erik Hamren has selected a squad much alike the one qualifying for the play offs, with Zlatan Imbrahovic as the star.

Patricio

Pereira - Costa - Pepe - Coentrão

Moutinho - Meireles

Nani - Ronaldo - Bruma

Postiga
________________________________

Ibrahimovic

Larsson - Elmander - Elm

Kallstrom - Wernbloom

Olsson - Antonsson - Granqvist - Olsson

Isaksson

What to expect from this match?

Erik Hamren has already been out saying Sweden are the underdogs in this match, which is partly true. There is no doubt that Portugal is a good team, but Sweden has a Zlatan in super form, and he will be important in this match. Portugal will put their trust in Ronaldo to deliver in this match, and it will truly be a battle between two of the Ballon d'Or nominated.

I expect to see a rather defensive Sweden, playing on the contras but also a Sweden getting most out of their chances with Zlatan as the main player. Portugal will be strong defensive, but will have to show offensive play at home to please the crowd. Could well end in a draw.

What are the odds?

Portugal are the favorites according to oddschecker.com, with betway holding the best odds at 3/4, while a Sweden win will give a 47/11 at betfair. If you think this will be another draw between the nations Unibet holds 14/5.