Portugal has arguably been the most impressive team in Russia. The reigning European champions topped Group A with an undefeated record. After a 2-2 draw with Mexico, they edged out hosts Russia 1-0 thanks to a Cristiano Ronaldo goal, and they thrashed New Zealand 4-0 in their final group game.
Ronaldo was once again on target against New Zealand, as were rising stars, Andre and Bernardo Silva. Veterans Ricardo Quaresma and Nani have also gotten on the scoresheet in the tournament, which is a testament to the amount of attacking options the Portuguese have at their disposal. But of course, Ronaldo can still go out and singlehandedly win them the game.
Meanwhile, their defense, which was a key in their surprising Euro 2016 triumph, has held firm. They’ve given up just two goals all tournament, both in their opening match against Mexico. Chile’s Alexis Sanchez will offer a unique threat, but the experienced Portuguese backline led by Pepe should be prepared for the challenge.
Chile has not looked very convincing in the Confederations Cup. They picked up a routine 2-0 win over Cameroon in their opening group game, although their performance was hardly the best. They did score a creditable 1-1 draw in their toughest group game against Germany. However, they could only draw 1-1 with Australia in their final group game, which cost them the chance to overtake Germany in Group B.
But despite his team’s uneven performances, star striker Alexis Sanchez has still been in good form in the tournament. He recently became his country’s all-time leading goalscorer thanks to his early goal against Germany.
Together with fellow stars Arturo Vidal and Eduardo Vargas, who both got on the scoresheet against Cameroon, the Chileans have enough quality up front to trouble the Portuguese defense.
Chile’s own defense will prove tough to break. They more than held their own against the Germans, who could only fire three shots on goal against them. Portugal’s recent M.O. in big games has simply been fairly conservative—to sit back, defend in numbers and counterattack quickly. Chile, though, is more than capable of taking advantage of that strategy by putting the pressure on the Portuguese until they break.
Writer’s Prediction
Portugal and Chile need more than 90 minutes to decide this semifinal as they draw (+200) in full-time.
