Portugal is set to face the Republic of Ireland in a friendly match on Tuesday night, marking their final preparation before the European Championship.
Here's a detailed preview of what to expect from both teams, including predictions, team news, and form.
Match Preview
Portugal's Recent Form
Portugal's form has been inconsistent leading up to this match. They lost 2-1 to Croatia in their recent friendly, marking their second loss in three games.
Despite these setbacks, they aim to bounce back with a positive result before kicking off their Euro 2024 campaign against the Czech Republic on June 18.
The Portuguese squad, which won Euro 2016, has a strong lineup but will need to regain their winning momentum quickly.
Republic of Ireland's Form
The Republic of Ireland, managed by interim boss John O'Shea, comes into this match following a 2-1 victory over Hungary.
However, their form over the past months has been shaky, with only one win in their last five matches. Ireland did not qualify for the European Championship, finishing fourth in their qualification group.
Historically, Ireland has struggled against Portugal, losing eight out of their previous 15 encounters.
Team News
Portugal
Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to return to the starting lineup after being an unused substitute against Croatia.
Coach Roberto Martinez is likely to make several changes, bringing in key players like Joao Cancelo, Diogo Jota, and Antonio Silva. Bruno Fernandes, Joao Palhinha, and Vitinha are expected to retain their spots in midfield.
Rafael Leao, who is vying for a starting position in the Euro opener, could see significant playtime.
Predicted Portugal Starting Lineup
Goalkeeper: Costa
Defenders: Cancelo, A Silva, Dias, Dalot
Midfielders: Fernandes, Palhinha, Vitinha
Forwards: Bernardo, Ronaldo, Jota
Republic of Ireland
For Ireland, Adam Idah and Troy Parrott are in contention for starting roles, with Parrott coming off a strong performance against Hungary.
Seamus Coleman is expected to lead the defence, supported by Robbie Brady and Shane Duffy.
Predicted Ireland Starting Lineup
Goalkeeper: Kelleher
Defenders: Coleman, Duffy, D O'Shea
Midfielders: Doherty, Smallbone, Cullen, Brady
Forwards: Azaz, Idah, Szmodics
Prediction
Despite Ireland's potential to make the match challenging, Portugal's superior squad depth and quality should see them through to a comfortable victory.
Martinez will be keen to avoid another disappointing result as his team gears up for Euro 2024.
Portugal 
Ireland 
