Portugal vs North Macedonia: winner qualifies for World cup

Portugal vs North Macedonia: A crucial tie as Ferando Santos’ men take on North Macedonia.

Portugal are favourites to win the tie but, would not take North Macedonia lightly. The minnows knocked out Euro 2020 champions Italy in a shock win over them.

They now aim to beat Euro 2016 winners Portugal. Portugal finished second in their wc qualifiers group behind Serbia. As a result, they had to play the qualifiers.

Portugal vs Turkey

Fernando Santos’ men beat Turkey to set up a tie against North Macedonia. Otavio starred as he had 2 goal scoring contributions that helped Portugal win 3-1.

Also read: https://www.sportstrumpet.com/portugal-vs-north-macedonia-for-place-in-the-world-cup-2022/
He tucked home Bernardo Silvas shot before setting up Diogo Jota.
Turkey pulled one back through Burak Yilmaz. The 36 year old then would go on to miss his penalty and a chance to draw Turkey level.
Rafael Leao set up Matheus Nunes who went on to score the third goal and win the tie for Portugal.
Portugal were in cruise control but failed to add more to the tally before Turkey scored 1.
If they are to beat North Macedonia, they would need their scoring boots on.
North Macedonia defended staunchly against Italy before a long range strike from Aleksandro Trajkovski settled the tie in their favour.

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Portugal looked vulnerable defensively after they conceded the goal.
But for the missed penalty by Yilmaz, the result could’ve been different for Fernando Santos.
He would need his forwards to be at their best and not take North Macedonia lightly.
It is a great achievement that they have been able to reach here. This speaks volumes about the quality they have in the side.

“The team is very confident and we are excited for the final,” Ronaldo said. “This is the game of our lives, just as with North Macedonia.

Although Portugal are favourites, they would need to be vary of the counter attacks of North Macedonia. An entertaining clash is on the cards as both teams would want to give their best.