Poland vs. Italy: Time, Live Stream, TV Schedule and Odds
Oct 14, 2018
GENOA, ITALY - OCTOBER 10: Jorginho of Italy in action during the International Friendly match between Italy and Ukraine on October 10, 2018 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
Poland host Italy in the UEFA Nations League at the Silesian Stadium in Chorzow on Sunday. Both teams trail Portugal in League A Group 3 and battled to a 1-1 draw in Bologna back in September.
Italy can call on several key stars, including Chelsea midfield playmaker Jorginho. The Azzurri should also know their opponents well, with some of Poland's brightest talents playing in Serie A, including Napoli duo Piotr Zielinski and Arkadiusz Milik.
Surprisingly, the visitors are favourites despite being on a dismal run of five matches without a win under coach Roberto Mancini.
Italy's status as favourites will make sense if Mancini's men control midfield. Jorginho owns the ball better than most, while Paris Saint-Germain schemer Marco Verratti also knows how to recycle possession between the lines.
GENOA, ITALY - OCTOBER 10: Marco Verratti of Italy in action during the International Friendly match between Italy and Ukraine on October 10, 2018 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
The pair will be key to creating chances for Ciro Immobile and Federico Bernardeschi. Both possess the pace and movement to trouble the Poland defence.
Bernardeschi scored during Wednesday's 1-1 draw against Ukraine. The Juventus forward offers Mancini a player who can operate on the flanks or though the middle but is at his best when making runs from out to in.
Poland's cutting edge still comes from Milik and Bayern Munich frontman Robert Lewandowski. The latter started as Poland lost 3-2 to group leaders Portugal on Thursday.
Krzysztof Piatek had put the hosts in front, a contribution reflecting the 23-year-old's burgeoning talent for finding the net. Barcelona and Chelsea are already keen on the Genoa striker, per Rebecca Chaplin of The Sun.
CHORZOW, - OCTOBER 11: Krzysztof Piatek of Poland, celebrate his goal the 1-0 during the UEFA Nations league match between Poland v Portugal at the Slaski Stadium on October 11, 2018 in Chorzow (Photo by Erwin Spek/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Both teams have quality in the attacking areas, making goals likely in this one. Italy's edge should come from how they use the ball in a more intuitive way thanks to the vision of Jorginho and Verratti.
Netherlands vs. Germany: Time, Live Stream, TV Schedule and Odds
Oct 13, 2018
MUNICH, GERMANY - SEPTEMBER 06: Toni Kroos of Germany looks on during the UEFA Nations League group A match between Germany and France at Allianz Arena on September 6, 2018 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Boris Streubel/Getty Images)
The Netherlands will play host to Germany in Amsterdam on Saturday, with both teams seeking their maiden wins in the 2018-19 UEFA Nations League.
Germany will have their chance to move to the top of Group A1 at the JohanCruyffArena. The Netherlands, meanwhile, will be happy just to get their first points.
Group leaders France fought to a stalemate in Germany in their Nations League opener before beating the Dutch 2-1 in September, but Die Mannschaft can knock Les Bleus off their perch with a two-goal win in Amsterdam.
Ronald Koeman is aiming to restore the Oranje to their former lustre, but two wins in their past six matches suggests the project is still a work in progress. That being said, Germany have only one win in their past three games and have failed to score in two of those outings.
The Netherlands have struggled against Germany when they have crossed paths over the past decade or so, failing to beat their rivals in any of their past five meetings, dating back to 2004.
Since then, Germany have beaten the Dutch twice and drawn on three occasions, although the all-time record between these two powerhouses reads a little more closely, per DW Sports:
Germany and the Netherlands meet for the 41st time on Saturday. The record so far:
It was as recent as Oct. 2 that Eredivisie giants Ajax travelled to Bavaria and stripped a point off Bayern Munich against the odds in their UEFA Champions League duel, drawing 1-1 in a game they were arguably unlucky not to win.
Koeman has sought to use that result as motivation for his men, per Goal's Jamie Smith:
"We have to respect the opponents but we also have to believe in ourselves.
"We are not so bad and the others aren't so good.
"We have to believe in our qualities, just like Ajax in the Champions League against Bayern.
"If you have the feeling you can compete with them slowly the confidence grows. The Dutch national team is in the same process right now."
It's encouraging to see the Netherlands coach insist upon maintaining the country's fascination with young, emerging talents despite the pressure on his shoulders, per Dutch football writer Michael Bell:
Rosario and Danjuma both scoring screamers in the Champions League tonight.
Both were included for the first time in Ronald Koeman's provisional Netherlands squad last week. Both have earned that call-up. Koeman confirms his squad on Friday.
While the Netherlands will have some new faces among the squad, Germany are still missing a familiar one in Mesut Ozil, whose international hiatus continues following his accusations of racism in the German Football Association, per BBC Sport.
The team would undoubtedly be better off were Ozil present, and manager Joachim Low recently expressed his disappointment to have lost the Arsenal playmaker, as Goal shared:
"You're just going to leave without calling me??" 📞
Joachim Low is still disappointed about how Mesut Ozil's decision to step away from Germany went down pic.twitter.com/pGqsL9CapH
Nevertheless, Germany look like deserved favourites in Amsterdam, with results seemingly on the up in the aftermath of their disastrous 2018 FIFA World Cup.
England and Croatia Play to Uninspiring 0-0 Draw in UEFA Nations League
Oct 12, 2018
Empty tribunes are seen during the UEFA Nations League football match between Croatia and England at Rujevica stadium in Rijeka, on October 12, 2018. (Photo by - / AFP) (Photo credit should read -/AFP/Getty Images)
England and Croatia played out a 0-0 stalemate in a behind-closed-doors UEFA Nations League clash on Friday at the Stadion HNK in Rijeka.
The Three Lions had the better of the chances overall as Eric Dier and Harry Kane hit the woodwork while Marcus Rashford was denied twice in quick succession by Dominik Livakovic, but they failed to make their opportunities pay.
The result leaves both teams with their first point in Group A4, five points behind Spain.
England Hurt as Much as Croatia with Empty-Stadium Punishment
The match was played behind closed doors as a punishment handed down to Croatia by UEFA after a swastika was marked onto the pitch in a 2016 match with Italy.
That it would hurt Croatia was not in doubt, but with England fans also prevented from attending—though it did not stop a small cluster of fans gathering on a hill overlooking the venue—both sides were equally affected by the total atmosphere vacuum inside the stadium.
ESPN FC's Michael Cox and theGuardian's Sachin Nakrani had fun with it early on:
Always important to silence the home crowd in the first 10 mins #lol
There was little fun to be had on the pitch, though, as both teams struggled to muster any urgency or intensity in the silence, and the match often resembled a training match instead of what should have been a competitive international.
As sports reporter Ian Abrahams and OptaJoe demonstrated, there was little excitement to speak of, particularly early on:
Croatia 0-0 England - so far as many exciting moments in the game as there are paying punters watching
1 - England recorded just one shot in the first half against Croatia; the fewest amount in the opening 45 minutes of an away game for the Three Lions since June 2015 against Republic of Ireland (also, 1). Quiet. #ThreeLions#CROENG
While England improved in the second half and had the chances to secure three points, the lack of vocal away support made life more difficult for them.
Given the punishment was aimed at Croatia, the Three Lions can feel aggrieved to have been made to endure the same disadvantage.
Impressive Jadon Sancho Should Have Come on Earlier
Leicester City's Ben Chilwell made his England debut at left-back on Friday and thanks to a tidy performance he looks to have a good chance of competing for caps with Luke Shaw and Danny Rose, but fellow debutant Jadon Sancho was the one who really caught the eye.
The 18-year-old starlet was one of several impressive young talents available to manager Gareth Southgate on the bench:
England have an uncapped trio on the bench with 20 goal involvements between them in club football this season - Jadon Sancho leads the list with 9 in 10 apps in all competitions for @BVBpic.twitter.com/WjAumT3uTe
Given his effectiveness for Borussia Dortmund this season, it came as little surprise that Southgate opted to deploy him as he sought to secure three points late on.
Sancho was brought on for Raheem Sterling in the 77th minute, and though he was unable to conjure a fairytale winner, he quickly offered an impressive showcase of what he could do.
In his brief time on the pitch, the youngster twice showed left-back Josip Pivaric a clean set of heels with his electric pace and dribbling, and his subsequent ball into the box was agonisingly close to being met by Kane from close range.
Abrahams and ESPN FC's Mark Worrall rued the fact he was only brought on for the closing stages:
In hindsight maybe Sancho should’ve come on a tad earlier?
Indeed, he added a spark that had been lacking in England's play, and his exciting showing deserved the reaction of a live audience that wasn't there.
Had Southgate brought him on a little earlier, he may have been able to make the difference for the Three Lions.
He looked at home in the senior side, though, and it's clear there's plenty more to come from the youngster.
What's Next
England take on Spain in the Nations League on Monday, while Croatia will play Jordan in a friendly on the same day.
Croatia vs. England: Time, Live Stream, TV Schedule and Odds
Oct 12, 2018
ELCHE, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: Luka Modric of Croatia during the UEFA Nations league match between Spain v Croatia at the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero on September 11, 2018 in Elche Spain (Photo by Laurens Lindhout/Soccrates/Getty Images)
England visit 2018 FIFA World Cup finalists Croatia in the UEFA Nations League on Friday in a repeat of their semi-final encounter from the tournament in Russia.
The Croatians got the better of England in the last four, beating the Three Lions 2-1 after extra time, but fell to defeat at the hands of France in the final.
Russia 2018 was a huge success for both nations, with Luka Modric being named player of the tournament.
The visitors arrive at the HNK Rijeka Stadium with a youthful squad. Borussia Dortmund's Jadon Sancho is one of a number of players standing by to make their debut for manager Gareth Southgate.
Date: Friday, Oct. 12
Time: 7:45 p.m. (BST), 2:45 p.m. (ET)
Odds: Croatia win: 13-8, England win: 19-10, Draw: 11-5
The usual colour added by the fans will be absent at the HNK RijekaStadium on Friday after UEFA confirmed the match will be played behind closed doors.
Croatia have been punished by the governing body for an incident in 2016 when a swastika was found to have been marked into their pitch for a game against Italy.
Southgate has continued to give youth a chance after a brilliant campaign in Russia, with Sancho ready to player to rely on for club and country.
The 18-year-old has been sensational in the Bundesliga this season, and he's been rewarded with an early chance to impress on the international stage.
Sancho admitted he was surprised to be offered the chance with England so early in his career, but he's been a star at youth level for many seasons.
Per Danny Gallagher of Sky Sports, the former Manchester City academy product explained his emotions on the cusp of his senior bow:
"I was at training when I first got the call-up and straight away I called my parents. Obviously they were delighted for me, and I couldn't stop smiling the whole day.
"I was a bit surprised to be fair because obviously I'm so young, I've got a lot to learn, I'm just grateful he [Southgate] is seeing my progress in the Bundesliga and I'm just very thankful."
The attacking midfielder has a goal and seven assists in the Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League this season, with BVB reportedly rating the talent at £100 million.
Croatia have witnessed their form collapse since the World Cup, and they suffered a 6-0 thrashing at the hands of Spain in the Nations League.
The defeat was a stark reminder they cannot rest on their laurels because they overachieved at Russia 2018.
Both teams are without a win in Group 4 of League A after falling to defeats at the hands of the Spaniards.
According to Al Hain-Cole of Goal, Ante Rebic and Dejan Lovren are available for Croatia after being notable absentees against Spain. Sancho is joined by Ben Chilwell, Lewis Dunk, James Maddison and Mason Mount as players ready to make their debuts.
England's midfielder James Maddison (R) watches the ball during an open training session at St George's Park in Burton-on-Trent, central England on October 9, 2018 ahead of their UEFA Nations League match against Croatia on October 12. (Photo by Paul ELLI
Maddison has been in fantastic form since arriving at Leicester City from Norwich City in the summer, and the attacking midfielder has taken to life in the Premier League like a duck to water.
The Nations League was formed to encourage increased competition, as international friendlies provide a lack of verve, and both countries will be going for the win in Rijeka.
Southgate's team will be expected to play with freedom as they attempt to grab a slice of revenge on Modric and Co., but the match will provide a strange atmosphere with no fans in the stadium.
Bernardo Silva's Goal Lifts Portugal Past Poland in UEFA Nations League Play
Oct 11, 2018
CHORZOW, POLAND - OCTOBER 11: Andre Silva of Portugal celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Nations League A group three match between Poland and Portugal at Silesian Stadium on October 11, 2018 in Chorzow, Poland. (Photo by Rafal Rusek/PressFocus/MB Media/Getty Images)
Portugal edged past Poland 3-2 on the road in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday, as the visitors claimed victory without Cristiano Ronaldo.
Krzysztof Piatek gave the hosts the perfect start with a finish after 18 minutes, but the Portuguese contingent turned the screw to wrestle control.
Andre Silva found the back of the net for the equaliser after 31 minutes, and Kamil Glik's own goal made it 2-1 to Portugal before half-time.
Manchester City star Bernardo Silva had the away fans on their feet with a goal after 52 minutes, but the Poles fought back in the closing stages.
With 13 minutes remaining, Jakub Blaszczykowski made it 3-2 after sustained possession and pressure from the hosts.
Ruben Neves Must Leave Wolverhampton Wanderers To Become A Superstar
Neves has been one of the surprise packages in the Premier League this term, but fans of Wolves know all about the midfielder.
A player who can sit deep but still dictate the traffic ahead of him, Neves has a little bit of everything needed from a modern midfielder.
The player produced one of the moments of the match for Portugal's second goal, providing a sumptuous long pass for Rafa, who saw his chance slid over the goal line by Poland's Glik.
Sky Sports Football highlighted Neves's vision via Twitter:
How's your touch, Rafa? 💥
He gets on the end of Ruben Neves' pinpoint pass to round the 'keeper, only for Glik to knock it into his own net! ⚽
Despite missing the world-class talents of Ronaldo, Portugal have a midfield that's the envy of the world, and Neves only has to look across the park to team-mate Bernardo Silva to see what he could soon be achieving.
Wolves have been excellent value in the opening weeks of the season, and Neves' midfield partnership with countryman Joao Moutinho has been one of the best in England.
However, for Neves to make the next level, he will need to find his way to a much bigger club than the Molineux Stadium outfit.
Neves is already at the level of a player who should be a part of Engand's top-four, and he has the ability to return to the continent with a major team.
The future looks bright for Portugal as they consider their options, with Ronaldo entering the twilight of his career.
Joining Neves on the cusp of greatness is Andre Silva. The young striker is showing great signs of maturity, and he has proved to be deadly for club and country.
The 22-year-old has been a revelation in La Liga since joining Sevilla on loan from AC Milan, scoring seven goals in just eight appearances in the Spanish top-flight.
Much like Neves, Andre Silva could soon find himself treading the boards at one of the biggest teams in Europe if his form continues.
Poland vs. Portugal: Time, Live Stream, TV Schedule and Odds
Oct 11, 2018
BOLOGNA, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 07: Robert Lewandowski of Poland looks on during the UEFA Nations League A group three match between Italy and Poland at Stadio Renato Dall'Ara on September 7, 2018 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Home advantage is expected to count for little when Poland host Portugal in the UEFA Nations League at the Silesian Stadium in Chorzow on Thursday.
Oddsmakers favour Portugal, despite the squad being set to be without Cristiano Ronaldo. He's been left out amid allegations of sexual assault dating back to 2009 brought by Kathryn Mayorga, per Sky Sports.
Portugal still have talent up front, but Poland striker Robert Lewandowski is the player who could make the difference for the hosts.
Both sides have already faced Italy in Group A, with Poland earning a 1-1 draw, while Portugal won 1-0 thanks to an Andre Silva goal back in September.
Silva's presence ensures Portugal will remain strong in the final third. The AC Milan striker has made a fast start since securing a loan move to La Liga side Sevilla this summer:
7 - Andre Silva has scored seven goals in his first seven La Liga games, the joint-fastest to reach that tally in the competition in the 21st century (also Zlatan Ibrahimovic). Star. pic.twitter.com/N7ItWk4Jwx
Coach Fernando Santos will supplement Silva with ample creative talent. Manchester City playmaker Bernardo Silva has the guile and vision to find space and thread passes between the lines.
Bernardo's quality on the ball will be complemented by the pace and perceptive movement of Valencia winger Goncalo Guedes. His runs along the front will challenge the awareness of a Poland defence led by AS Monaco centre-back Kamil Glik and Jan Bednarek of Southampton.
The undoubted strength of the Poland squad lies in attack, where Bayern Munich man Lewandowski leads the line superbly. He may have some support in the form of Genoa frontman Krzysztof Piatek, who has been identified as one to watch by Lewis Jones of Sky Sports:
"He's been dubbed the 'new Robert Lewandowski' by some and is reportedly being watched by Barcelona. His move to Serie A side Genoa in June didn't exact set pulses racing around the world. However, 13 goals in first eight games for his new club have made people sit up and take notice of his striking talents."
WROCLAW, POLAND - SEPTEMBER 11: Krzysztof Piatek of Poland in action during the International Friendly match between Poland and Republic of Ireland at the Municipal Stadium on September 11, 2018 in Wroclaw, Poland. (Photo by Rafal Rusek/PressFocus/MB Medi
Piatek is in form, but he also faces a challenge breaking into a forward line not only featuring Lewandowski but also Napoli's Arkadiusz Milik.
Poland have the firepower to upset the odds and edge out an experienced Portugal side potentially short on goals.
Sergio Ramos, Spain Dominate Croatia in 2018 UEFA Nations League Win
Sep 11, 2018
Spain's midfielder Marco Asensio (L) celebrates with Spain's midfielder Dani Ceballos after scoring a goal during the UEFA Nations League A group 4 football match between Spain and Croatia at the Manuel Martinez Valero stadium in Elche on September 11, 2018. (Photo by JOSE JORDAN / AFP) (Photo credit should read JOSE JORDAN/AFP/Getty Images)
Spain moved six points clear at the top of their Nations League group on Tuesday after mauling 2018 FIFA World Cup runners-up Croatia 6-0 at the Estadio Manuel Martinez Valero in Elche.
A Saul Niguez header opened the scoring before Marco Asensio belted one in from range and forced an own goal upon Croatia goalkeeper Lovre Kalinic. Rodrigo Moreno made it 4-0 soon after the restart, captain Sergio Ramos headed in a fifth near the hour mark, and his Real Madrid team-mate Isco drove in the sixth.
The result marks Croatia's heaviest-ever defeat and their first time conceding five goals since they lost 5-1 to England in 2009. Zlatko Dalic's side now sit bottom of Group 4 in League A, below England on goal difference.
LopeteguiDeserves Credit forAsensioReturning to Golden Boy Form
It seems almost no surprise given his history of improving Spanish youngsters thatJulen Lopetegui should have a hand in restoring Asensioto his best this season, which was on show for all to see inElcheon Tuesday. A display comprising one goal, three assists and one forced own goal saw to that.
Cristiano Ronaldo's departure forJuventuscreated a gap on Real's flanks, andLopetegui has left little to interpretation in who he wants to fill it, startingAsensioon the left flank in all three La Liga games so far this season.
Asensiohas restored the faith with five assists in those outings, and sportswriterEuan McTearcouldn't help but notice the renewed confidence appears to be aiding his international production:
Asensio. No goals in his first 15 Spain games. Then, like buses, two at once.
Journalist Ben Hayward more explicitly lauded Lopetegui's hand in helping the 22-year-old, who didn't quite have the successful 2017-18 he might have hoped for after exploding onto the scene the campaign before:
Ceballos and Asensio are going to get a lot more playing time at Real Madrid this season and that can only be good for Spain. Lopetegui, despite the nature of his exit, might end up doing La Roja a favour after all...
Tuesday's performance reminded us more of the player who was once nominated for the 2016 Golden Boy award and who has previously shown such an affinity for stepping up to the big occasion.
Although there were many others in gleaming form against a vulnerable Croatia,Asensio sparkled brightest and forced his goals at a time when the game was still close-run. ESPN's Richard Martin summed up the kind of one-man-army impact he was having:
Harry Redknapp would have loved to have coached Asensio. His tactical plan would be pleasingly simple: "Give it Marco"
The evidence seems clear that not only is Asensio set to be an even more vital component for Los Blancos at club level this season, but his importance to Luis Enrique's Spain side also looks set to undergo an upgrade.
Saul the Obvious Candidate to FillIniesta's Boots
The round-of-16 exit at the World Cup this summer was a glum result for Spain, not only because it served as a sour note on which AndresIniestaended his career, but also because it left more alarms than ever as to who would replace him.
Concerns are not new regarding who will carry the midfield torch left byIniestaand his old Barcelona team-mateXavi, but there should no longer be a question thatAtletico terrier Saul is the right man to do so.
It takes a special kind of leader to be the man first on the scoresheet, especially as a midfielder, but for the second game in succession, Saul was on hand to get Spain off the mark when they needed it on Tuesday, via Sky Sports Football (UK only):
"Saul has arrived!" 🔥
Spain have taken the lead against Croatia in their UEFA Nations League clash, live on Sky Sports PL now!
And fittingly so, it was the kind of goal that the Spain of 10 or so years ago once thrived upon. Italian journalist Tancredi Palmeri noted the long, patient buildup required before Saul popped up on the end of a pinpoint Dani Carvajal cross to finish; it even looked like the kind of goal Iniesta would have bagged himself:
The 68 consecutive seconds of ball possession and 19 passes from Spain that lead to Saul goal v Croatia.
Great building up, great Luis Enrique, but especially a superior players’ technique. That’s how you build football: teaching to kids to play the balk, not to win games pic.twitter.com/qeSAx7hrO3
Saul levelled after a Marcus Rashford opener in Saturday's 2-1 win over England but was first to the mark on Tuesday. And though he's been moulded in Madrid—Saul spent two years in Real's academy before joining Atletico—he continues to display all the signs that he is this generation's Iniesta.
Twitter user KyleNewbypraised the Spanish grassroots system and its ability to keep producing such magnificent talents:
Spain just proving you need grassroots, No Iniesta no Xavi but comes up Isco, Asensio, Saul, It’s a joke the amount off players they create
Against England it was Sergio Busquets and Thiago Alcantara, a defensive force and a creative weapon, who Saul dazzled. Busquets started again on Tuesday, except it was Dani Ceballos who took Thiago's place as the creative linchpin.
There's refinement to be done yet, however—Saul's pass completion of 88 per cent was the lowest of Spain's midfielders, perWhoScored.com—but his ability for grasping the big moment sets him apart from his compatriots.
Croatia's Defensive Deficiencies Will See Them Struggle in Tough Group 4
The hangover effect of a successful World Cup is something of a curse in football, but Croatia paid the price on Tuesday largely down to a selection of key defensive mishaps.
Therewas little avoiding Saul's opener, the result of near-unstoppable Spanish buildup at its best, but the failure to quickly close downAsensiofor the hosts' second put the onus squarely on Dalic's men.
If Croatia were to blame forAsensio's goal, then the reluctance to stop the same star winding up on his left minutes later was criminal, enticing the long-range specialist to unleash one of his most lethal weapons:
2 goals in 2 minutes for Spain! ⏰
It may go down as an own-goal, but what an effort from Marco Asensio to make it 3-0...🔥🔥🔥
Dejan Lovren is Croatia's best option at centre-back but was missing for Tuesday's clash, replaced by Club Brugge defender Matej Mitrovic, 24, who looked out of sorts alongside Domagoj Vida.
Cork City forward GrahamCumminsjoked the result may have been different wereLovrenpresent:
Seems Lovern wasn’t wrong when he said he was one of the best defenders in the world judging on the Spain v Croatia score
Next month's meeting with England is now all the more crucial for Croatia if they're to top Group 4, having suffered a major setback in terms of goal difference in Elche.
If The Three Lions are able to expose Croatia's defensive demons as routinely as Spain did, the World Cup runners-up will be looking back on their Russia journey as an all-too-distant memory.
What's Next?
Spain will be in friendly action against Wales when next they're in action on October 11, which is the day before Croatia are set to host England at the Stadion Rujevica in Rijeka.
Portugal vs. Italy: Time, Live Stream, TV Schedule and Odds
Sep 10, 2018
BOLOGNA, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 07: Head coach of Italy Roberto Mancini looks on before the UEFA Nations League A group three match between Italy and Poland at Stadio Renato Dall'Ara on September 7, 2018 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Portugal open their UEFA Nations League account against Italy on Monday evening and will hope the home comforts of the Estadio da Luz help them clinch victory in their opening fixture of the tournament.
Italy got their tournament up and running with a 1-1 draw at home to Poland on Friday, leaving both those teams tied on one point apiece in Group 3 of League A.
Fernando Santos' men can therefore top the table with a home victory in Lisbon, although they'll have to do so without the talents of Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Portugal captain remained in Turin to continue his settling-in period at new club Juventus.
TV Info: Sky Sports Football (UK), Univision Deportes (U.S.)
Match Odds
Portugal: 6-5
Draw: 2-1
Italy: 5-2
Preview
Neither of Monday's combatants are in sparkling form ahead of their Nations League showdown, with Portugal posting only three wins in their last 10 games, and Italy following not far behind with two in their last 10.
One major difference between the two, however, is that Santos has higher expectations upon him after four years in the job, while Roberto Mancini is still getting used to his responsibilities as Italy head coach.
With Ronaldo permitted to remain in Turin, Santos has made use of the Nations League encounter by handing some key experience to national team newcomers, per sportswriter Tom Kundert:
Portugal coach Fernando Santos has rung the changes for the Croatia and Italy matches. Cristiano Ronaldo rested. First call-ups for: Tondela GK Cláudio Ramos Montpellier defender Pedro Mendes Benfica midfielder Gedson Fernandes Monaco forward Rony Lopes pic.twitter.com/n8mXF8M6Al
Goalkeeper Claudio Ramos and defender Pedro Mendes are still yet to make their debuts, but others are earning their first minutes as senior stars.
The forward's absence also means a shake-up in attack for Monday's hosts, with Andre Silva potentially in line to start at striker, having netted a hat-trick on his debut for Sevilla, whom he joined on loan this summer from AC Milan.
Meanwhile, Serie A expert James Horncastle touched on the approach taken by Italy chief Roberto Mancini when it came to his selection:
Mancini’s Italy squad for Poland and Portugal games is full of new faces, in part because it’s made up of 31 players. Pellegri, Zaniolo, Cragno, Lazzari and Biraghi get their first call ups. Chiellini returns for first time since ill-fated play-off against Sweden pic.twitter.com/glB1yAfbIQ
The Azzurri have a near-identical record to Portugal in their last 10 matches, having won twice, lost three and drawn five, though Mancini has been in charge for only the last four games.
His reign started happily enough with victory over Saudi Arabia, but a loss to France in June was followed by draws against the Netherlands and Poland. Sportswriter David Amoyal suggested results may be expected too soon, however:
Quite frankly anyone who thought getting rid of Ventura would solve most of the problems on Azzurri needs to get with concept of two things not being mutually exclusive. He did a terrible job but there’s also not much talent available
Mario Balotelli is back in Italy's plans since Mancini's return, but Football Italia reported he looks like he could miss Monday's duel after coming off injured in the 1-1 draw against Poland.
The winner of this match takes top spot in Group 3, but Portugal risk slipping off the pace at home unless they can muster some might in the absence of Ronaldo.
Saul Niguez, Spain Come Back to Beat England 2-1 in 2018 UEFA Nations League
Sep 8, 2018
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 08: Saul Niguez of Spain holds off Kieran Trippier of England during the UEFA Nations League A group four match between England and Spain at Wembley Stadium on September 8, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Spain ensured England made a disappointing start to their UEFA Nations League campaign by leaving Wembley Stadium with a 2-1 win in Group A4 on Saturday.
Saul Niguez and Rodrigo Moreno cancelled out Marcus Rashford's opener as the 2010 FIFA World Cup winners turned on the style when it mattered in London.
England thought they'd equalised deep into stoppage time when substitute Danny Welbeck turned in, but the goal was ruled out for an apparent foul in a melee involving Spain goalkeeper David De Gea.
Luke Shaw assisted Rashford's goal, but the Manchester United left-back had to be stretchered off after suffering a head injury following a collision with Spain defender Dani Carvajal early in the second half.
Shaw later regained consciousness in the dressing room and was able to communicate, per BBC Sport. On the pitch, England were unable to rally and prevent Luis Enrique from enjoying a winning debut as Spain coach.
Marcus Rashford Proves He Should Start More Often for Club and Country
Rashford took his goal brilliantly in the 11th minute, having been played in by Manchester United team-mate Shaw's wonderfully arced pass. As good as the pass was, the 20-year-old striker's movement may have been better.
He had bent his run well, attacking the gap between left-back Marcos Alonso and centre-back Nacho. Excellent timing positioned Rashford directly between Nacho and skipper Sergio Ramos as the ball from Shaw came in.
It not only let Rashford finish with the minimum of fuss, but it also maintained his impressive scoring run for his country:
Marcus Rashford has now scored in 4 of his 6 home starts for England v Australia ✅ v Slovakia ✅ v Slovenia ❌ v Brazil ❌ v Costa Rica ✅ v Spain ✅ pic.twitter.com/qwYcxRCaDF
Rashford's pace and varied movement gave Spain trouble all night. He worked the middle ahead of misfiring Harry Kane and proved a threat whenever he peeled off onto the flanks—particularly during the second half.
Drawing a save when one-on-one against United goalkeeper De Gea late on showed Rashford still has work to do as a finisher. However, the quality of his overall game sent a message to England boss Gareth Southgate.
It also let Red Devils chief Jose Mourinho, who has given the gifted young attacker just one start this season, know he should pick Rashford more often.
Saul Niguez Is Ready to Be Spain's New Talisman
Andres Iniesta and David Silva have retired from international duty, but Enrique needn't worry. He has a natural talisman in midfield in the form of Niguez, who levelled the scoring in style to cap a flowing move two minutes after Rashford had found the net.
Fittingly, it took a player of Saul's talent to achieve a rare feat against England's defence on their home soil:
Saul is only the 2nd opposition player to score in England’s last 9 home competitive internationals - also Slovakia’s Stanislav Lobotka in Sept 2017 pic.twitter.com/979rn37lhr
The powerful low shot showcased the class of the Atletico Madrid star in front of goal. Few players connect as fiercely and cleanly with the ball when a shooting chance arrives.
Nor can many midfielders match the 23-year-old's drive and ability to time his runs from deep to offer vital support for his forward line. The trait makes Niguez a natural link between the deeper areas of midfield and the final third.
It also means he lends Spain tremendous fluidity as he rotates positions seamlessly with Isco and Thiago Alcantara, depending on when and where he makes his runs.
Having a player this good not close to his peak gives Enrique a building block around which he can construct a bright future for La Roja.
Shaky Defending Can Ruin England's Progress Under Gareth Southgate
England have taken strides on Southgate's watch, most notably finishing fourth at this summer's FIFA World Cup in Russia. Yet Southgate will have little chance to build on the progress if the Three Lions' defending continues to be this shaky.
The intuitive movement and subtle passing of Niguez and Co. laid bare England's back three time and again.
Despite having natural a centre-back in Liverpool's Joe Gomez slot in alongside John Stones and Harry Maguire, Southgate's men lacked shape and awareness. The frailties were most vividly exposed for both goals.
Spain's opener took advantage of reckless challenges and shoddy positioning:
Mistakes like these meant England matched an unwanted mark:
2 - England have conceded more than once in the first half of a game for the first time since June 2017, when they lost 3-2 against France in Paris. Breached. #ENGSPA
The numbers should be a reminder for Southgate where his work needs to be done if the Three Lions are to make progress.
What's Next?
Spain will continue their group campaign when they face Croatia in Elche on Tuesday, the same day England host Switzerland in a friendly at Leicester City's King Power Stadium.
Italy, Poland Ends 1-1 in 2018 UEFA Nations League After Jorginho Penalty
Sep 7, 2018
Italy's midfielder Jorginho celebrates after scoring with his teammates during the UEFA Nations League football match between Italy and Poland at Renato Dall'Ara Stadium in Bologna on September 7, 2018. (Photo by MARCO BERTORELLO / AFP) (Photo credit should read MARCO BERTORELLO/AFP/Getty Images)
Italy came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw with Poland in both teams' opening match of the 2018-19 UEFA Nations League in Bologna on Friday.
Napoli midfielder Piotr Zielinski volleyed home the opener for Poland from a cross by Robert Lewandowski five minutes before half-time.
Italy levelled with a little over 10 minutes of normal time remaining, as Jakub Blaszczykowski slid in on substitute Federico Chiesa and conceded a penalty.
Jorginho sent goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski the wrong way with his spot-kick to salvage a point in Roberto Mancini's first competitive game in charge of the Azzurri.
Italy Lacking in Attack as Balotelli Struggles on Return
Mancini recalled Mario Balotelli to the national team, and the striker made his first appearance for Italy since 2014.
However, it was not a happy return for the 28-year-old who struggled against Poland. The striker was starved of service and lacked composure when he did receive the ball in dangerous areas.
Opta noted how peripheral he was in the first half:
Substitute Chiesa had the biggest impact of all of Italy's attackers. The 20-year-old looked lively in his brief cameo and was too quick for Blaszczykowski who conceded the penalty.
Zielinski Outshines Jorginho In Midfield
Chelsea midfielder Jorginho started the game, but it was his former Napoli team-mate Zielinski who really impressed in Bologna.
BOLOGNA, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 07: Piotr Zielinski of Poland celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the UEFA Nations League A group three match between Italy and Poland at Stadio Renato Dall'Ara on September 7, 2018 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Al
Previous manager Gian Piero Ventura was criticised for his failure to make Jorginho a key part of his side as the Azzurri failed to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
However, the 26-year-old was badly at fault for Poland's goal. The midfielder lost the ball twice in the build-up and could only watch as Lewandowski crossed for Zielinski to hammer a shot past Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Football writer David Amoyal shared his view:
Zielinski has become such a complete midfielder, wouldn’t surprise me if we talk of him as one of the very best at his position in all of @SerieA by season’s end
Jorginho did manage to make amends, as he grabbed the equaliser from the penalty spot. However, Italy need to find the right mix in midfield to enable them to get the best out of the Chelsea man.
Mancini Has His Work Cut Out To Restore Italy To Former Glory
Friday's defeat was Mancini's first competitive game in charge and showed he has his work cut out to restore them to their former glory.
Poland came into the game off a disappointing World Cup. They failed to make it out of the group after defeats to Senegal and Colombia, and star striker Robert Lewandowski failed to score in the three matches.
However, for the majority of the match they were largely comfortable and managed to hold Italy at bay. They will view this game as an opportunity wasted to take all three points after inviting Italy back into the game in the second half.
Poland seemed happy to sit back and were penalised when Blaszczykowski conceded a penalty and the hosts rescued a point.
ESPN Janusz Michallik said they will be happy with the result:
Good result for Poland under their new manager. Little too pragmatic for me, but played to their strengths. Italy million miles away from being Italy.
As for Italy, the lack of quality in the team is evident. There are issues in defence, as the team have now conceded at least one goal in their last six games, perOpta.
Going forwards the lack of invention and cutting edge was obvious to see. It was a disappointing start to Mancini's tenure, and there were few positives for Italy from this performance.
What's Next?
Italy play their second Nations League match on Monday in Portugal at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon. Poland are in action a day later, as they host Republic of Ireland in an international friendly.
