Portugal confirmed their place for next summer's World Cup by thrashing Switzerland 2-0 in their final match in Group B at Estádio da Luz, according to the Mirror. It was Johan Djourou's own goal that put Portugal in front few minutes before half-time before André Silva doubled the goal difference and ultimately sealed Portugal's place for Russia 2018. Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo made a good account of himself, setting up defense splitting passes that gave Portugal the edge upfield. However, Switzerland attackers had some clear chances in front of goal but struck few of their attempts on the woodwork.
Nevertheless, Switzerland advanced to the playoffs, following Netherlands inability to qualify despite beating Sweden 2-0. Portugal finished as leaders of Group B with 27 points. Here's the summary of the match.
Portugal outlook
Starting XI and individual performance points: Goalkeeper - Rui Patrício (6.58). Defender - Cédric Soares (seven points), José Fonte (7.19), Pepe (7.82), Eliseu (6.60). Midfielder - Bernardo Silva (7.89), João Moutinho (7.37), William Carvalho (seven points), João Mário (6.89). Forward - Cristiano Ronaldo (6.70), André Silva (7.44). Used substitutes - Vitorino Antunes (6.25), Danilo Pereira (six points), André Gomes (5.77).
Team's strength and weakness: Portugal created chances through set pieces and counter-attacks.
They had high shot frequency when in possession and were able to convert chances. However, they were aggressive in their tackles.
Style of play: Fernando Santos' men favored through balls and long shot situations. Also, they largely attacked through the flanks.
Switzerland outlook
Starting XI and individual performance points: Goalkeeper - Yann Sommer (5.72).
Defender - Stephan Lichtsteiner (6.76), Fabian Schär (6.51), Johan Djourou (5.90), Ricardo Rodríguez (6.36). Midfielder - Remo Freuler (six points), Granit Xhaka (6.48), Xherdan Shaqiri (6.57), Blerim Dzemaili (5.71), Admir Mehmedi (six points). Forward - Haris Seferovic (5.69). Used substitutes - Denis Zakaria (six points), Breel Embolo (six points), Steven Zuber (5.83).
Team's strength and weakness: Vladimir Petkovic's men had chances in front of goal from set pieces but weak at finishing. In addition to these, they committed several individual stumbles and gave away free kicks within their box.
Style of play: Switzerland favored counter attacks, long shot situations, and passes.
Who's the Man of the Match?
No doubt, Bernardo Silva's was instrumental in Portugal's triumph over Switzerland. Silva made three key passes and provided an assist. Overall, he completed a total of seventy-seven touches.
