Portugal dropped into second in their Nations League group as they fell to a lacklustre defeat against Switzerland on Sunday night courtesy of Haris Seferovic’s first-minute strike....CONTINUE READING
The Swiss made an excellent start with as they struck inside the first 60 seconds, as Silvan Widmer fired in a pearler of a cross for target striker Seferovic to glance a header beyond Rui Patricio and into the far corner.
That loose opening sparked Portugal into action as they saw more of the ball, though it was Switzerland who nearly got the chance for a second when the referee consulted VAR over a potential Nuno Mendes handball in the area. However, a foul took place in the buildup and no spot-kick was given.
The Selecao did manage one shot on target during the first half as Danilo Pereira’s header forced a save from Jonas Omlin following Ruben Neves’ nod back across goal. However, they were largely disjointed and went into half time behind.
The second period saw Seferovic gifted an entire half to run into as the Benfica striker looked to make it 2-0, but he dragged his effort wide before Portugal pushed forward.
Substitute Bernardo Silva made an instant impact, driving forward and testing Omlin with a swerving long shot. Fellow replacement Goncalo Guedes also went close, latching onto a shot but only guiding it straight at Omlin.
Guedes was involved as Portugal continued to look for the equaliser, teeing up Diogo Jota with a looping cross, though the Liverpool forward saw his header Bioreports Newsed away by Omlin.
It’s Portugal’s last game of the break and they return to action in September, when they face the Czech Republic. Switzerland will take on visit Spain on the same night.
