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Match #2- Uruguay vs Portugal
The 2nd match of the knockout stages is yet another clash between a South American and European nation. Uruguay finished the group stage with a perfect record. After a couple of 1-0 wins, their attack looked much more threatening as they defeated the hosts 3-0 to top the group. Portugal, the defending European Champions, on the other hand, toiled into the round of 16 with 1 win and 2 draws. They looked far from convincing in their lone win over Morocco as well. They were almost knocked out at the death in their final game against Iran as the Asian nation missed a great chance to score the winner. Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo's penalty miss in that game could come back and haunt him.
Uruguay start as favourites based on their form. Led by Suarez and Cavani up front and with Godin and Gimenez in the heart of the defence they have the team to give Portugal a run for their money. On the other hand, Portugal is over-reliant on their star man and captain Cristiano Ronaldo who started the tournament with a stunning hat-trick and a goal after just 4 minutes against Morocco but has been subdued and below par since then. It was Quaresma's moment of brilliance which earned them the spot in the round of 16.
The likes of Andre Silva who had an excellent qualifying campaign, Moutinho, Joao Mario must contribute if Portugal is to get the better of Uruguay. Fernando Santos should give more game time to Guedes and Martins off the bench as their pace will be a threat late in the game. Despite the attacking talent at the disposal of both managers, again the team which holds firm on defence is more likely to come on top in this game.
Prediction - Uruguay 2-2 Portugal. Portugal to win on Penalties.
