Bosnia-Herzegovina could have earned more then a loss from the first leg against Portugal. We all know and proven right during the World Cup qualifications group stage that Bosnians are a decent side with too much creativity potential in their midfield and offensive line. Nothing has chanced, same team, same coach and this time they will have their strong fans support behind them.

Fan support and home venue are their main advantages for the second leg, that is clear and no need to mention it several times. Let’s look at the main disadvantage they are going to have which will probably effect the match directly;  Lack of experience in handling the pressure.

Now, people expect them to control the game and put on some pressure to the Portugal team especially after the wasted chances in the first leg. Playing a game as an underdog might be an advantage to teams like Bosnia which have talented players as we mentioned for the first leg but when the expectations rise that might be the starting of an end for the dream. Especially if you are playing against a team like Portugal, no matter their form level is.

Portugal side is actually quite relieved after the first leg. 1-0 generally is not a result to rely on but a win at home with a clean sheet is really something against an offensively dangerous side like Bosnia. They avoid it and now they know how to play and picture is more clear for them; If they won’t lose, they are through. From that point of view; knowing how your opponent will play before the game is a great chance.

Unlike Bosnia, Portugal team can defend. They have suitable players for a defensive approach and suitable players for counter attack. Performing a solid style of play against an inexperienced Bosnian side might produce a result for them. From the start, Bosnians will start to attack, we all expect that. May be not taking too many risks at the beginning but assuming they won’t score an early goal; the game will be played in a way which will benefit Portugal’s approach to the game.

Final words; I am expecting an action pack game here especially in the second half. As for the prediction; I will go for a Portugal win; confidence given by the points I mentioned above.

Prediction
Portugal | Win
Extras
Goals | Over 2,5
Draw at HT | Portugal at FT