Euro 2020 Qualifiers, Ukraine 2-1 Portugal: 3 Talking Points

#1 First defeat in 14 matches for Portugal

Portugal have lost for the first tie in over a year

Ever since their ouster in the World Cup round-of-16 at the hands of Uruguay last year, Portugal posted some impressive results, culminating in the UEFA Nations League triumph earlier in the year.

Following that 2-1 defeat to Los Celeste in Sochi, Portugal went on a 13-match unbeaten run, winning eight and drawing five of those.

Impressive victories were recorded over Italy, Netherlands and Switzerland in the Nations League, while there were also routine wins over minnows like Lithuania and Luxembourg in Euro qualification.

A tactical masterclass by Andriy Shevchenko brought their run to an end and while it might have been gutting to taste defeat for the first time in over a year, Los Selecao can get back to winning ways when they host Lithuania on matchday 9 of the Euro 2020 qualifiers.

About the author

Elvis is a seasoned football journalist and has been with Sportskeeda for more than 6 years. He specializes in writing match previews across several leagues and competitions around the world, and his insightful tips have amassed a total readership in excess of 9.2 million till date. Elvis' meticulous attention to detail and strictly following SK's editorial guidelines have been key to achieving a vast readership. He has also exclusively covered the 2021 Nigerian Universiy Games and has provided research for an upcoming biography for a Nigerian football legend.

Elvis has been a Super Eagles fan since 2004, and them beating defending champions Cameroon in the AFCON that year left a lasting impact on him. He supports Sporting Lagos at club level and loves to watch games live at the Onikan Stadium due to its buzzing atmosphere. His favorite football players are former Nigerian forward, Osaze Odemwingie and former Real Madrid legend Raul Gonzalez.

If Elvis could change one football rule, it would be to not be booked for celebrating with pitch side fans. He believes that football is a passionate game and celebrations should be encouraged to the fullest. When not analyzing the latest previews, Elvis indulges in activities such as swimming, reading, and karaoke.

Know More

Edited by Alan John