Portugal haven’t been performing well, at least below expectations. Their performance in the World Cup qualifying group stage was a disappointment considering their potential on paper. Actually, with all respect to the opponents; they were in one of the easiest groups among all but still couldn’t manage to directly advance. One can’t ignore this fact while considering to preview this match.

As mentioned in other play-off previews, the key factor in these kind of do-or-die games is motivation and better to state it at the beginning; the motivation factor is on the Bosnia side. They are named the underdog in this clash which will also add some extra push to their performance. Bosnia came here from tough series of matches by knocking out last Euro semi-finalist Turkey in a group which dominated by last Euro champions, Spain. Bosnia ’s performance in a group like that was pretty impressive and their morale are at the top level.

Portugal will be without C. Ronaldo as he is ruled out due to an injury. Since the squad has options in that position, the miss of Ronaldo is something to be underlined. Bosnia on the other hand is with full squad.

According to the reports and press statements, Portugal will have an attacking mentality as expected with three attackers up front and one more attacking minded midfielder of total three.

Bosnia will also play in an attacking minded tactic from what we got. Actually, they seem to have no choice as their best part is their offensive power and creativity. As they can’t suddenly form a rock solid defensive team from that squad, the sensible outcome is they will try to play in a way that they do best.If they somehow try to defend and play a counter attack style; that would probably be an end for their campaign.

All roads lead to an action-pack game if Portugal’s approach to the game doesn’t change. They have the ability to play both defensive and offensive approach while Bosnia have only offensive approach in their hands.

For the conclusion, I am expecting a good match with some goals in it. The odds for a Portugal win are quite ridiculously low and doesn’t worth the risk in my opinion. If you are looking for something juicy; a handicap in favor of Bosnia might carry a value. Still, going for goals looks like the best option.

Prediction
Goals | Over 2,5
Extras
Goals | Both Teams to Score
Bosnia(+1,5) | Win