Iran v Portugal
Kick-off 7:00pm. Live on BBC One
A DRAW will be enough for Portugal to book their place in the last 16 but they may not have it all their own way against a well-drilled Iranian side managed by former Portugal boss Carlos Queiroz.
The former Manchester United assistant manager being in the dugout provides an interesting subplot to the match. He's described as Cristiano Ronaldo's mentor having overseen his development at both United and Portugal, so if anyone knows how to nullify the superstar's threat it could be him. It would be quite the story if the 65-year-old could mastermind a win over his native land and send Ronaldo and co packing.
Iran weren't overawed in their 1-0 defeat to Spain, in fact the popular opinion was that they should've taken something from the game for their gallant approach. That defeat was their first in 24 competitive matches and prices around the 5/1 mark underestimated Team Melli's chances this evening.
Portugal's over-reliance on Ronaldo was highlighted once more in their 1-0 win over Morocco, where he scored the only goal. If Portugal are to deep in to the tournament then other players will need to step up to the plate, and soon. The task for Iran seems simple; Stop Ronaldo, Stop Portugal. Easier said than done however.
In a game where Portugal may be happy to play out time if scores are level it makes no sense to back them at 4/6. Instead the bet looks to be having both Iran and the Draw onside at 5/4.
With 23 goals in 35 appearances Rubin Kazan's Sardar Azmoun could be Iran's biggest threat if you're looking to oppose Ronaldo as first scorer. Both of Iran's expected penalty takers sat out the match against Spain so responsibility may fall to the striker if they're awared a spot-kick.
Super Single
- Iran or Draw Double Chance 5/4 Bet365
Bonkers Bet
- Iran 1 Portugal 1 7/1 Bet365
First Goalscorer
- Sardar Azmoun 10/1 Bet365
BetBuilder
- Both Teams to Score
- Over 3 Corners for Iran
- Over 30 Free-kicks in the match
- 7/1 Bet365
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