World Cup 2022 Portugal vs Uruguay, Tips & Predictions

Three crucial points are on the line in Group H when Portugal and Uruguay meet at the Lusail Iconic Stadium on matchday two at World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Fernando Santos’ Portuguese can confirm their place in the next round with a victory and 22bet have priced them as favourites to prevail. Read our predictions for this fascinating tussle below and remember to read our 22bet review to find out about their superb promos and bonuses.

Uruguay eliminated Portugal from the last World Cup in Russia when they beat the Europeans 2-1 in the tournament’s Last 16.

• Portugal occupy top spot in Group H following their 3-2 win against Ghana.
• Uruguay took a point from their opening test against South Korea (0-0)..
• Uruguay won on just eight of their 18 qualification fixtures.

Portugal just about squeezed over the line against Ghana on matchday one, though Fernando Santos’ side conceded as many chances as they created and goals were notched at both ends. Monday’s meeting with Uruguay could be just as open and both attacks have players that can finish chances. With that in mind, our the first of our betting tips recommends a stake on both teams to score.

Both Teams to Score – 19/20

Many games at the 2022 World Cup so far have been slow burners, indeed, 63.4% of the goals scored at the tournament have been notched in the second half. Portugal’s clash with Uruguay could be a chess-like battle to begin with and supporters might have to wait until after the interval again before action levels start to rise.

Highest Scoring Half – Second – 11/10

Our final prediction is something of an outsider bet at longer odds, though are enough factors at play to suggest it could be worth backing with a small stake. A lofty nine penalty kicks have been awarded at the 2022 World Cup, one of which was awarded to Portugal against Ghana following a contentious decision. The Portuguese have several players who need very little encouragement to go down in the box and they could earn another spot kick against Uruguay.

Portugal to Score a Penalty – 9/2

Portugal

Portugal disappointed at each of the last two World Cups and failed to get past the Round of 16 on each occasion. However, Fernando Santos’ troops made a positive start to their adventure in Qatar with a 3-2 win over Ghana.

Key Players: Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes

Team news: Otavio and Joao Felix were surprised inclusions for Portugal against Ghana on matchday one, while Bruno Fernandes' role in attack was also slightly unexpected. Fernando Santos could pick the same XI against Uruguay on Monday.

Predicted Lineup: Costa - Cancelo, Dias, Pereira, Guerreiro - Neves, Silva, Otavio - Fernandes, Ronaldo, Felix

Uruguay 

Uruguay were perhaps a little unfortunate not to snatch three points against Korea Republic after they hit the woodwork twice and they will be hoping for a fairer rub of the green when they take on Portugal on matchday two.

Key Players: Federico Valverde, Darwin Nunez, Jose Gimenez

Team news: Head Coach Diego Alonso settled on a 4-3-3 formation on matchday one and he is unlikely to shift from that set-up against Portugal. Edinson Cavani will hope to start ahead of Luis Suarez in attack.

Predicted Lineup: Rochet - Caceres, Godin, Gimenez, Olivera - Valverde, Bentancur, Vecino - Pellistri, Cavani, Nunez

Portugal impressed from an attacking perspective against Ghana on matchday one, though there were enough holes in their defensive display to suggest they could both score and concede again on matchday two against a dangerous Uruguayan outfit. With an open contest anticipated, our prediction recommends backing both teams to score.

Both Teams to Score