After further upsets and tremendously exciting matches, we’re down to the final eight teams at the World Cup. This quarter-final match will see unlikely heroes Morocco take on a dominant Portugal on December 10, 2022, at 16:00 (CET).
Where is the value in the betting? Read on to inform your World Cup 2022 predictions.
Morocco vs. Portugal: odds
|
Morocco |
Draw |
Portugal |
|
16.95% |
25.42% |
57.63% |
When: 16:00 (CET)
Where: Al Thumama Stadium, Doha
Morocco vs. Portugal: team news
Portuguese star and contender to the throne of best player in the world, Cristiano Ronaldo, was benched against Switzerland for “disciplinary reasons”.
Ramos put the world on notice with a hat trick
It’s expected that he’ll remain on the bench following an outstanding performance from Gonçalo Ramos. In his first non-friendly senior start for Portugal, the Benfica forward completed a fairy-tale hat trick and led Portugal to a 6-1 victory against Switzerland.
Danilo Pereira is still in doubt to be fit for this clash but he’d likely struggle to replace Pepe who boasts extensive big game experience.
Morocco have arguably displayed the most consistent line-up in the World Cup and having a settled line-up has certainly worked for them. It’s unlikely that Walid Regragui will make any changes unless Nayef Aguerd proves unfit after being forced off during their clash against Spain.
Morocco vs. Portugal: predictions
Morocco shocked the world with a huge upset over Spain in the round of 16 with a thrilling 3-0 penalty shootout victory. Meanwhile, Portugal comfortably defeated Switzerland with a 6-1 display of dominance.
Morocco have only conceded a single goal
Morocco won’t be easily overcome. The Atlas Lions held steadfast and battled hard to resist the Spanish “death by a thousand passes” strategy.
After a staggering 917 accurate passes and 77% possession, Spain could only muster eight shots on goal – only one was on target and none found the back of the net.
Having caused several upsets throughout the tournament, we shouldn’t be surprised by Morocco’s defensive prowess by now – the mighty Atlas Lions defence have only conceded a single goal during the World Cup. Pinnacle’s great odds on Morocco keeping Portugal to under two goals is priced at 1.909*.
Portugal have certainly appeared like men on a mission and they enter this match with tons of momentum.
Many might question the strategy behind keeping Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench, but Portugal proved to be a faster and proactive attacking unit when they beat Switzerland in the Round of 16.
Goncalo Ramos will likely start once again, with Ronaldo playing the role of a game changer in the second half. Considering Morocco’s solid defence, Pinnacle’s odds of 3.840* for the Atlas Lions to hold off Portugal to a draw are of value.
However, Portugal should still prevail in an extremely tight finish and Pinnacle have priced their victory at 1.694*. Morocco are priced at 5.760* to win.
A 1-1 draw in the first half seems likely – a first half draw priced at 2.130* at Pinnacle - with Ronaldo coming off the bench to secure a 2-1 victory in the second half, moving Portugal one step closer to raising the trophy on December 18.
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