Portugal vs Luxembourg
As the international break draws nearer, on the UEFA side of things, first-placed Portugal will take on third-placed Luxembourg at Estádio Algarve on October 12, as they edge closer to qualifying as winners of group A. The Seleção have had an impressive run so far, with thirteen points in five games and only dropping two points due to a 2-2 draw with Stojkovic's Serbia in March. They will look to continue in fine form as they line up against The Red Lions next week Tuesday. Luxembourg, on the other hand have not been bad during this qualification campaign, at least for a team of their calibre. With two wins, two losses and a game less than everyone else in the group, their hopes of qualifying are still very much alive. They will however have to be really focused and need dogged determination if they are to cause an upset against Fernando Santos' men who are clearly the favourites to come out on top in this contest.
The Red Lions will also be needing the help of their star player, Gerson Rodrigues, who has with no doubt, played an indispensable role in his nation's ambitions to play in their first ever World Cup Finals. Speaking of the first leg back in March, which ended 3-1 in favour of Ronaldo and co, Luxembourg had the opportunity to defeat the Portuguese outfit after Rodrigues put them in front, quarter-to-half time. Navegadores however found their way back into the game through a Diogo Jota equaliser just as the halve was elapsing.
Portugal were able to take it on from there with second half goals, coming from Cristiano Ronaldo and Paalinha in the 51st and 80th minute respectively and with Luxembourg also reduced to ten men. However, for Portugal this fixture looks like a really easy one and they could cruise to victory here. Fernando Santos and his men, however, have to ensure they get it right and keep the game fast-paced for the entirety of ninety-minutes.
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Key players:
Portugal:
Cristiano Ronaldo (3 goals) The United striker will definitely be a threat to the Luxembourg defence as he's been in top form this season, scoring an impressive four goals upon his legendary return to Old Trafford. Luxembourg will have to learn to contain this elite and deadly target man if they are going to emerge unscathed in this fixture
Diogo Jota(4 goals)
Luxembourg:
Gerson Rodrigues (3 goals)
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