This is exactly the sort of game I wanted to see before the knockout stages.
Portugal know that only a win guarantees top spot in Group K, while Colombia have quietly looked like one of the strongest teams in the tournament. Neither side has any reason to settle for a draw, which should make for an open, entertaining match in Miami.
Here’s my 29.00 Bet Builder.
My Colombia vs Portugal Bet Builder (29.00)
- Over 7.5 corners
- Portugal most corners
- Portugal to win
- Cristiano Ronaldo 3+ shots
- Bruno Fernandes 1+ assist
- Cristiano Ronaldo anytime goalscorer
- Over 3.5 goals
- Both teams to score
Portugal To Win
This is comfortably Portugal’s toughest group game so far, but I still fancy us.
The response against Uzbekistan was exactly what we needed after the disappointing draw with DR Congo. Winning this game means topping the group and avoiding a tougher Round of 32 tie, so there is no reason for Portugal to hold anything back.
Cristiano Ronaldo Anytime Goalscorer
Ronaldo is flying again.
His double against Uzbekistan saw him become the first player ever to score at six different World Cups, and he now heads into this match full of confidence.
He has already had 10 shots at this tournament, six more than any other Portugal player, and when Ronaldo gets into this sort of rhythm he always backs himself to score again.
Cristiano Ronaldo 3+ Shots
This feels like one of the safest legs in the builder.
Everything still goes through Ronaldo in the final third. He has already registered 10 shots across Portugal’s first two matches, and with Portugal needing victory to top the group, I expect him to be heavily involved again.
Three shots feels very achievable.
Bruno Fernandes 1+ Assist
Bruno is the creative heartbeat of this team.
He broke the Premier League assist record last season with 21 assists, and although he hasn’t registered one yet at this World Cup, he’s already created three big chances and has an expected assists figure of 1.02.
If Portugal score two or three goals, I’d be surprised if Bruno isn’t involved.
Portugal Most Corners
Portugal spend so much time attacking wide areas that corners naturally follow.
The full-backs push high, the wingers constantly isolate defenders, and the number of crosses into the box forces plenty of blocks and clearances.
With Portugal expected to dominate territory for large spells, I like them to win the corner count.
Over 7.5 Corners
This ties in nicely with the previous selection.
Portugal need to win the match, while Colombia won’t simply sit back knowing a draw is enough. Two attack-minded teams with plenty of quality out wide usually leads to corners.
I think eight is a very reachable line.
Over 3.5 Goals & Both Teams To Score
I’m expecting one of the best games of the group stage.
Both teams have scored in three of Portugal’s last four matches, while six of Colombia’s last eight games have produced at least three goals.
Portugal have scored in eight of their last ten games, Colombia in nine of their last ten, and with first place on the line I think both sides will go for it.
Sofia’s Prediction
This feels like a knockout game arriving a little early.
Colombia are an excellent side, but I trust Portugal’s midfield to control the big moments.
Predicted score: Portugal 3-2 Colombia
Ronaldo scores again, Bruno pulls the strings, and Portugal head into the knockout stages as group winners.
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