Portugal should come out on top here and grab the three points they need to steady their World Cup campaign. They sit third in Group K with just one point after that 1-1 draw against DR Congo, while Uzbekistan have nothing to show from their opening 1-3 loss to Colombia and sit bottom of the section.
The Portuguese have looked solid enough in the build-up. Wins over Nigeria and Chile by 2-1, plus a 2-0 against the USA, show they can find goals when it matters. That 0-0 with Mexico was the only blip in their last five. Uzbekistan's form tells a different story, with defeats to Canada and Colombia sandwiching a couple of wins in the FIFA Series.
Expect Cristiano Ronaldo to lead the line again as captain. The likely Portugal eleven lines up with Costa in goal, Cancelo, Araújo, Veiga and Mendes across the back, Neves and Vitinha in midfield, then Silva, Fernandes and Neto supporting Ramos up front. Uzbekistan's setup remains unknown, which only adds to the sense they are up against it as World Cup debutants facing a European side with far more experience.
Portugal's attack has clicked in most recent outings and they will fancy their chances of finding the net early. Uzbekistan have struggled to keep clean sheets lately and that could prove costly once more. A win here would lift Portugal clear in the group and ease any early pressure.
Recommended Bets
Portugal win @1.25 — They have four wins or draws in their last five while Uzbekistan lost their opener and have little recent success against stronger opposition.
Portugal -1.5 Asian handicap @1.90 — Portugal's recent scoring record suggests they can win by two clear goals against a side that has conceded in four of their last five.
Over 2.5 goals @2.10 — Both teams have seen matches go over that line in three of their last five outings combined.
Odds tend to shorten closer to kickoff — lock in value now.
