Scotland and Portugal are set to (or have recently) face off in what promises to be a compelling match, perhaps in the UEFA Nations League.
To truly understand the dynamic between these teams, we need to dig into the stats. Ball possession and expected goals are just a couple of the key metrics.
Scotland vs. Portugal: A Look at Past Matchups
The Scotland and Portugal national football teams haven’t faced each other often, but when they have, Portugal has historically come out on top.
Here’s a quick rundown of their head-to-head record:
- Scotland wins: 0
- Portugal wins: 2
- Draws: 0
Let’s focus on the upcoming match: Scotland will face Portugal on October 15, 2024, at 6:45 PM GMT. This will be Round 4 of the UEFA Nations League.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Let’s dive into the numbers to get a clearer picture of how Scotland and Portugal performed.
Offensive Stats
Portugal had an expected goals (xG) number of 1.47 compared to Scotland’s 0.43, suggesting Portugal had a higher probability of scoring based on their chances. The total shots taken by both teams was 14, and only one “big chance” was created.
Possession and Control
Portugal also dominated in ball possession, with 57% compared to Scotland’s 43%. Greater possession usually allows a team to dictate the tempo of the game and create more scoring opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Scotland ever played Portugal?
Yes, Scotland and Portugal have faced each other in international football matches. These encounters have occurred in various competitions, including friendlies and qualifying rounds for major tournaments like the European Championship and the World Cup. Historically, these matches have been competitive, with both teams vying for victory.
Why is Scotland v Portugal not on TV?
The broadcast of football matches depends on broadcasting rights agreements. If a Scotland versus Portugal game isn’t televised in your region, it could be due to the game not being selected by broadcasters, or because the rights for that particular match haven’t been acquired by local channels. Check local listings and streaming services for availability.
What was Portugal national football team biggest defeat?
Portugal’s largest defeat came on March 30, 1947, when they lost 10-0 to England. This match remains a significant event in Portuguese football history, highlighting the challenges the team faced during that era.
Has Portugal ever played Argentina?
Yes, Portugal and Argentina have played each other in international friendlies and other competitions. These matches often draw attention due to the presence of star players on both sides, such as Cristiano Ronaldo for Portugal and Lionel Messi for Argentina. The games are competitive and eagerly anticipated by fans worldwide.
Closing Thoughts
Looking at the numbers, the differences between Scotland and Portugal are stark. Portugal often dominates in xG and possession, while head-to-head records tell their own story.
While these stats offer clues, remember that football is unpredictable. Stats are just one piece of the puzzle when trying to figure out who will win on match day.