With four games remaining in Euro qualifying, Portugal and Slovakia aim to secure their spots in next summer’s European Championship as the top two teams in Group J.
Portugal is the favorite to top Group J after winning all six of their qualifying matches. Slovakia is five points behind them and still in contention for their third consecutive Euros, but they are only three points ahead of Luxembourg, who could make their first appearance in a major international tournament.
Here’s what you need to know before watching the match.
How to watch and odds
- Date: Friday, Oct. 13 | Time: 2:45 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadio do Dragao — Porto, Portugal
- Live stream: Fubo (Try for free)
- Odds: Portugal -430; Draw +440; Slovakia +1100
Storylines
The two teams faced each other a month ago in Bratislava, with Portugal winning 1-0 thanks to a goal from Bruno Fernandes. While the match was initially closely contested, Portugal eventually took control to secure the victory.
Portugal is once again the frontrunner in this week’s match, especially with a squad that is nearly at full strength. Fernandes, Joao Felix, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Diogo Jota are all eligible for the 2016 Euro champions. Slovakia has proven to be defensively strong, conceding only two goals in six games, but Portugal’s attack-heavy roster will look to increase their already impressive goal difference of +24.
Prediction
There is little reason to believe that Portugal will not continue their strong performance in Euro qualifying. However, Slovakia’s strong defense may limit Portugal’s offense, even in front of a home crowd. Pick: Portugal 2, Slovakia 0
