Portugal – Ghana: World Cup Betting Preview
By Dan King under the supervision of Lucas Mondelo
Portugal may be the opponents of Brazil in the Round of 16 depending on what happens, so it may be interesting to find out more about them by reading this betting preview!
Portugal Summary
Portugal experienced a turbulent qualifying route to arrive in Qatar in 2022. The top spot was snatched due to an added-time goal which forced them into the playoff, which at the time looked like a devastating blow.
Good luck came their way when North Macedonia’s shock elimination of Italy prevented them from having to face off for World Cup entry, and they eased through easily in the end.
A richly experienced and talented Portugal team is considered one of the candidates to win the competition. However, unwanted attention on star man Ronaldo has hindered preparation and likely upset the dressing room.
Worse could follow if the ex-Man Utd and Real Madrid striker feels neglected should the boss dare drop him. And if the 37-year-old does not deliver as much as coach Santos or the nation expects, this is probable.
Unlike Manchester United, Portugal still pins their hopes and builds their game around Ronaldo, but this stage could shine a light on his true ability.
Their only doubt for the opening game is winger Nuno Mendes. Boss Fernando Santos has Ronaldo fully recovered from illness and his best side available.
Ghana Summary
Four years ago, Ghana missed the World Cup in 2018 and they come into the 2022 competition with plenty to prove to their doubters.
Having not qualified for Russia, Ghana only just snuck into this World cup thanks to two playoff draws, securing their ticket to Qatar via the away goals rule.
Ghana does not have the confidence or quality of the exciting 2010 World Cup squad that almost reached the semi-final. That said, there are several promising youngsters which have started to establish themselves in the Ghana side.
Team spirit is good and they have nothing to lose, they would be delighted to get out of the group.
On the team news front, it is all positive for the Black stars. They overcame Switzerland on Thursday in a behind-closed-doors preparation game, with all players coming through unscathed in a much-needed confidence boosting win. The manager Otto Addo has his best team available and no injury concerns or doubts.
Betting Analysis: Portugal – Ghana
Looking at the 1×2 market first, where the favourite for this game is Portugal to get a win @ 1.36. For punters happy to oppose the Portuguese, the draw can be backed @ 4.75. A shock Ghana win pays out @ 9.0
Moving onto the Asian handicap market for this contest. For favourite backers, they would need Portugal -1.25 @1.91 to win by at least two clear goals for a full win. A narrow one-goal victory would see half the stake returned.
Ghana is +1.25 @ 1.950 in a bet that would need big faith placed in the African side against the much fancied and experienced Portuguese team.
Looking at The Under/Over market last of all. Interestingly, the line was moved out to 2.5 from opening at 2.25, indicating punters expect goals in this match. Over 2.5 is 1.950 while Under 2.5 is @ 1.860
