FRIENDSHIPS FORGOTTEN FOR ETERNAL GLORY
Cristiano Ronaldo will take on his Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos in the World Cup’s most highly-anticipated group stage clash on Friday. As Portugal and Spain look to get their Russian sojourn off to a winning start in Sochi, HT analyses how the two squads stack up:
SAFE HANDS
With David de Gea standing guard between the sticks, Spain boasts of arguably the best goalkeeper in world football at the moment. De Gea’s ability to contribute to Spain’s attacks with accurate kicks will also be a bonus.
Portugal’s first choice goalkeeper since 2011, Rui Patricio’s heroics at the Euro 2016, was a major contributing factor to their continental triumph. The 30-year-old is undoubtedly one of the safest hands in Europe at the moment.
RESOLUTE MEN
The Spanish defence is one of the most experienced - they conceded just three goals in 10 qualifying games. Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique, both of whom were key to Spain’s 2010 triumph, will be supplemented by Jordi Alba’s attacking threat and pace to form one of the most best backlines.
Portugal’s resolute defence cannot be overlooked and will be pivotal if they are to curtail Spain from finding gaps to their goal. Led by veteran Pepe, who will be joined by either Bruno Alves or Jose Fonte in the centre, they conceded two goals in last nine qualifying matches.