This Saturday, Armenia will host Portugal in one of the opening matches of the European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup at the Vazgen Sargsyan Stadium in Yerevan. Here’s a betting tip for this matchup.
Match preview
Armenia approaches the qualifiers with a new coach, former defender Yegishe Melikyan. Under his leadership, the team has played several friendlies, showing both defensive weaknesses and some attacking potential. Key players to watch include Barseghyan and Zelarayán, along with newcomers from European clubs. However, the defense remains a concern.
After a disappointing exit from the Nations League playoffs where they lost 1-9 on aggregate to Georgia, Armenia is eager for a new beginning. The team has been refreshed, and Melikyan aims to boost confidence among the fans. Facing Portugal right from the start presents a tough challenge, requiring discipline and character, along with support from the home fans.
Portugal returns to competition after winning the Nations League, having defeated Spain in the final to secure their third major trophy in nine years. Under coach Roberto Martínez, the team has undergone a successful restructure and appears strong, despite the loss of Diogo Jota and André Silva. The players are motivated to honor their memories with their performance.
World Cup qualification has had its challenges for Portugal, but Martínez aims to ensure a smooth start this time. Even without injured stars like Leão and Dalot, the team is filled with talent: Cristiano Ronaldo plays a key role, while Conceição and Neto are in good form. There’s also a competitive midfield with Neves and Vitinha vying to play alongside Bruno Fernandes. Historically, Portugal has never lost to Armenia, making this match a great opportunity to begin the campaign with a win.
Probable lineups
- Armenia: Tsankarevich; Ovanisyan, Mkrtchyan, Arutyunyan, Muradyan, Tiknizyan; Iwu, Dashyan; Bichakhchyan, Zelarayán; Barseghyan
- Portugal: Costa; Cancelo, Dias, A. Silva, Mendes; Fernandes, R. Neves, Bernardo; Conceição, Ronaldo, Neto
Match facts and head-to-head
- Portugal has won 4 of their 6 matches against Armenia, with the other two resulting in draws.
- Armenia has not secured a win in an official match since November 2022.
- Cristiano Ronaldo has netted 5 goals in 4 matches against Armenia, including a hat-trick in 2015.
Prediction
Portugal holds a clear advantage in terms of quality. Even after recent events, the team’s motivation will be high. While Armenia may put up a fight, they are not expected to keep pace for the full match. A comfortable win for Portugal by at least two goals is anticipated. Consider betting on “Portugal to win with a -2.0 handicap” at odds of 1.68.
Add Footem.in As your Preferred Source on Google
Follow the latest on Footem WhatsApp Channel