Portugal heads into their match against Poland on Saturday in a strong position, buoyed by their recent back-to-back victories in the UEFA Nations League. With Cristiano Ronaldo leading the charge, the Selecao aims to maintain their momentum after securing maximum points in their opening games against Croatia and Scotland.
Ronaldo's impressive form has been crucial for Portugal; he scored in the win over Croatia and made a significant impact against Scotland, helping to clinch a late victory.
Despite concerns about the team's reliance on the 39-year-old star, coach Roberto Martinez is optimistic about Portugal's prospects as they look to qualify for the 2026 World Cup and potentially reclaim the Nations League title they won in 2019.
In contrast, Poland comes into this match having faced mixed results. They managed to secure a thrilling win over Scotland but suffered a setback against Croatia. Captain Robert Lewandowski remains a key player for the Eagles, having added to his international tally recently.
However, Poland's performance has been inconsistent, and head coach Michal Probierz is under pressure to rejuvenate the squad while aiming to avoid relegation in the Nations League.
Historically, Portugal has had the upper hand against Poland, remaining unbeaten in their last six encounters. With both teams vying for vital points in Group 1, this matchup promises to be an intriguing contest as they both look to solidify their positions for the next phase of the tournament.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Portugal's coach, Roberto Martinez, has brought in some new faces for this month's matches, including Farense goalkeeper Ricardo Velho and Mallorca midfielder Samu Costa in his 26-man squad.
After a standout solo goal against RB Leipzig in the Champions League, Juventus winger Francisco Conceicao returns to the team, having missed the September fixtures due to injury. However, Sporting Lisbon players Geovany Quenda and Pedro Goncalves will not be available.
Martinez, known for his unpredictable tactics, might go with a 4-3-3 formation on Saturday, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo up front, flanked by Rafael Leao and potentially a few other attacking options.
On the Polish side, there are also some new additions, with Legia Warsaw midfielder Maxi Oyedele and Rakow Czestochowa winger Michael Ameyaw joining the squad.
Despite these changes, the core of the team remains intact. Jan Bednarek will anchor the back three, Inter Milan’s Piotr Zielinski will play in central midfield, and all-time top scorer Robert Lewandowski will lead the attack.
Unfortunately for Poland, Lewandowski will be without his injured strike partner Arkadiusz Milik, so either Karol Swiderski or Krzysztof Piatek is likely to step in and support him up front.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Poland possible starting lineup:
Skorupski; Dawidowicz, Bednarek, Walukiewicz; Frankowski, Szymanski, Zielinski, Urbanski, Zalewski; Swiderski, Lewandowski
Portugal possible starting lineup:
Costa; Dalot, Dias, A. Silva, Mendes; B. Silva, Vitinha, Fernandes; Neto, Ronaldo, Leao
EXPERT PREDICTION
Poland 2-3 Portugal
Portugal might not be the strongest defensively, but they definitely bring multiple threats when attacking and can easily outscore their opponents.
Poland has introduced some new talent recently, but they still have weaknesses in defense. This weekend, they’re unlikely to hold off Ronaldo and the rest of the Portuguese attack.
