World Cup Forensics: Portugal vs Spain

It's the battle of the Iberian Peninsula in Group B as Portugal and Spain go head to head in their opening World Cup game at Fisht Olympic Stadium in Sochi. Portugal will want to get off to the best possible start to their campaign whilst they take on a Spanish side reeling from the sudden sacking of their manager Julen Lopetegui on Wednesday.

Fernando Hierro will take charge of Spain from here on out, and they are one of the most talented teams on paper in the entire tournament, if not most of all.

Believe it or not, Portugal are a vastly improved side from the team that won EURO 2016. That side relied on grinding out results, backing themselves to get the job done in extra time or via penalties. Whilst ageing in defence, they are a top attacking unit with Bernardo Silva, Joao Mario, Andre Silva and Cristiano Ronaldo comprising a vicious front line.

The Spanish are a whole other animal, though. Loaded with talent all over the pitch, Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique anchor a defence that has David De Gea starring between the posts. Sergio Busquets anchors the midfield, whilst Andres Iniesta and David Silva create in front of him. Then there's still Isco, Marco Asensio, Koke, Saul, Diego Costa and more to choose from to make up the XI.

Portugal are a talented outsider to win it all, but make no mistake that this Spanish side is a bonafide World Cup contender.

Portugal are only winning 22 percent of simulations and in my opinion are a bit risky at $4.00, and a draw at $3.25 is only a tiny bit better in value. It's Spain at $2.05 that catches my eye. If you can find any market for them winning at $2.05 or better, take it. It's the value play.

With two strong attacks on either team, this is a market I am not keen on diving into. Combine that with the presence of David De Gea in goal for the Spanish there are too many variables on either side of the argument that tell me to just stay firmly away from that market and the both one.

The Spanish might have lost their coach but not their ability to play football and follow their tried and trusted game plan. From between the posts right through to their frontline, there is too much talent, and they should eventually be able to overwhelm Portugal.

Barring a Cristiano Ronaldo-led masterclass, put your money on the Spanish to get the win.

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