Portugal only needs a point from this match against Algeria to ensure top spot in Group D. That means head coach Rui Jorge can afford to rest some key personnel like stars Bruno Fernandes and Gonçalo Paciência, who has scored twice in this tournament thus far. But even if they do make some changes to their starting XI, Portugal’s second-stringers should still have more than enough attacking talent to take on Algeria’s backline. The Algerians are already out of the competition after losing their first two matches to Argentina and Honduras.
For Algeria to record the upset, they will need to control the possession game once again. The Algerians had 56 percent of the possession in their stinging 2-1 loss to Argentina on Sunday. Offense has never been a problem for Algeria in these Summer Olympics, with the Fennec Foxes racking up three goals in their opening two Group D matches. Providing the firepower for Algeria in this tournament is Sofiane Bendebka. He has scored in each of Algeria’s last two games.
Key to Portugal’s exceptional start in these Summer Games has been their phenomenal defense. They have allowed just a single goal in their opening two matches, the lowest among the four competing teams in Group D. Leading the way for Portugal’s backline is Tobias Figueiredo. He has been absolutely tremendous in the center of defense for Portugal. Figueiredo has also contributed on the offensive end here in Rio, scoring in Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Honduras.
Defense may be the bread and butter for Portugal but that is certainly not the case for their opponents Algeria. Their backline has been problematic in this competition, surrendering five goals in their opening two matches. It won’t get much easier for the African nation tonight as defender Ayoub Abdellaoui will be out against Portugal because of a one-match ban. Abdellaoui was sent off in their last match against Argentina due to a high boot foul.
Writer’s Prediction: Portugal eases past Algeria, 3-0.
