England U21 vs. Portugal U21: Preview and betting tips

Sunday’s Under-21 European Championship programme will feature a showdown between England and Portugal. The home side are the favourites on results, the visitors by long term performance. What to expect from the match and what to bet on?

England have handled the group stage with ease, giving all opponents the same two goals and not scoring once. The first place was already secured after two rounds of the group, but now the traditionally strong Portuguese are waiting for them.

Although they had a problem with advancing, as they lost in the first round to Belgium, a win over Belgium and a draw with the Netherlands was enough for them. And the Portuguese tend to be stronger in the play-offs than in the group stage, unlike England.

England’s key figures

Emile Smith-Rowe has been good so far in the tournament, the Arsenal midfielder has already netted two goals, although he has started as a substitute in two games. Midfielder Jacob Ramsey is following up a good season at Aston Villa, scoring and assisting once so far.

Portugal’s key figures

Pedro Neto is back after a season of several injuries, the skilful winger has assisted once so far in the tournament. Left-back Nuno Tavares also has Premier League experience, and has also put in a likeable performance in a Marseille jersey this season.

England have long struggled in the knockout stages, with only one bronze in their last six appearances at the final tournament. The fact that the media and fans in the British Isles don’t pay as much attention to the Under-21s is also playing a part.

Moreover, Portugal’s only game against Georgia was essentially a failure, the only loss in 15 games since losing the Euro 2021 final. Since then, they have given, for example, a six to Cyprus, a four to Greece and a three to Norway.

Given Portugal’s long term excellent form, England’s inability to manage play-off matches and the general caution in the knockout phase, I think the Portuguese won’t lose, at the very least they will take the game to extra time.