World Cup Qualifier Preview: Portugal vs Israel

Posted on October 10, 2013 by SoccerPunter

Cristiano Ronaldo is confident that Portugal will take maximum points in their remaining World Cup qualifying matches against Israel and Luxembourg for Group F.

Portugal vs Israel kick off tomorrow at 1945hrs GMT. Based on SoccerPunter H2H stats, Portugal have yet to lose in the World Cup 2014 qualifier. In addition, they have a 100% winning record at their home ground against Israel.

Portugal have 17 points at second place behind Russia in Group F. Whereas Israel have 12 points only. So it is unlikely Israel will overtake the Portuguese unless the latter lose their remaining two matches.

After scoring a hat-trick against Northern Ireland in the previous World Cup qualifying match, Ronaldo is now the second all-time top goalscorer for Portugal, just four goals behind Pauleta.

Ronaldo is praying that Russia will not beat Luxembourg. But according to H2H stats for Luxembourg vs Russia, the Russians have won all the past 9 matches, a 100% win over Luxembourg.

Portugal coach Paulo Bento is facing an injury crisis ahead of their clash with Israel. Veteran first team players Bruno Alves, João Pereira, Raul Meireles and Hélder Postiga are missing.