12 Jun 2019
In betting terms, Wednesday’s World Cup games leave a little to be desired, with giants against minnows for the most part. Yet the opening game of the day in World Cup Group B could be a really interesting one: on paper, Portugal v Morocco (1pm) should see the European champions on cruise control, following their dramatic 3-3 draw with Spain.
Morocco, however, simply must win to have any hope of qualifying from the group, following their 1-0 defeat by Iran, who top it.
While Ronaldo continues to pile up the accolades – his late free-kick leveller had more than a whiff of inevitability about it – at 33, he is likely playing at his last World Cup. And even if he has one last fling, he will not be at the peak of his powers in Qatar 2022.
Portugal believes it can go a long way to recording an historic double of European Championship and World Cup, yet they do have some glaring defensive deficiencies. Pepe and Jose Font, who was exposed time and again for a lack of pace when with West Ham last season, are no longer good enough at the top level. Those who disagree with that assessment are welcome to back Portugal on the World Cup Outright market at 16/1. It is all very well having the experience, but while the mind may be willing, the body... etc.
It may be true that Pepe and Fonte kept a clean sheet against Belgium in a friendly, but Portugal have only kept two clean sheets in their last seven outings and both sides to score is a shade of odds against, which may be a bit of value.
Morocco appeared as though they were already out of the competition after Aziz Bouhaddouz’s 95th-minute own goal condemned them to defeat by Iran, yet while there were plenty of positives about their display, they will need to pull off two of the biggest World Cup shocks to book their place in Round 16.
Iran should have to make at least one change, with Nordin Ambrabat ruled out with concussion. His brother Sofyan is expected to deputise.
Joao Mario could be in contention to make a start for Portugal, who are likely to see Ruben Dias replace the cumbersome Fonte.
Verdict:
Portugal 3-1 Morocco - the Correct Score Odds are 14/1.
With Morocco having to throw caution to the wind, this could play into the hands of Ronaldo and company. While Portugal’s defence is suspect, it will be safety in numbers and the African nation will be exposed as they push for a result. The first goal will be crucial and if Portugal get it, they could stroll to three points.
Check out all the latest odds for Portugal v Morocco
