Iran vs Portugal Free World Cup Picks and Group B Odds

by Tony Sink - 6/19/2018

World Cup Group B

Monday, June 25, 2018

Mordovia Arena

Iran will take on Portugal at Mordovia Arena in a Group B matchup on Monday, June 25, 2018. The opening line for this World Cup matchup has Iran at +1050 and Portugal at -315. The total opened at 2.25.

This will be a very tough game for Iran to handle as they have a suspect defense and Portugal come in with attackers that can score at will. Iran has done a good job of keeping scores low in the recent past, but Portugal shouldn't have too much of a problem picking up the win in this game.

Iran

The Iranians have already shown that they are willing to sit back and absorb pressure for 90 minutes, and that will probably be their plan against Portugal. The problem with that approach, of course, is that they are going to have to accept that Cristiano Ronaldo is going to get his chances when they do sit back and he's willing to take the shots from distance if they give them to him. Iran can do a bit of damage themselves up front, so they will be hoping that Portugal switches off at some point.

Ramin Rezaeian

The 28-year-old full back is going to have a tough time slowing Ronaldo down, but what will give Iran hope is that he never seems to be intimidated by tough competition. Rezaeian also gives his team a lot of pace up the right side, so look for him to spring forward whenever he can.

Vahid Amiri

The veteran winger has just one goal in his career for Iran, but he gets consistent playing time because he's careful with the ball and he is a solid passer from the wing. His job against Portugal will be to squeeze back and play good traps on defense, then jet forward to support striker Sardar Azmoun up front.

Portugal

Everyone knows that Portugal should be able to handle Iran pretty easily with all of the attacking power they have up front. However, this could one of those trap games national team coaches worry about. Portugal can't get frustrated by Iran's defensive approach or else they could end up giving up an important goal when they switch off. They do have plenty of experience in their squad now, so that shouldn't end up being a problem in this one.

Goncalo Guedes

Guedes has been nothing short of excellent for Portugal, especially considering he is just 21 years of age and on a team filled with other talented players. The winger has three goals in 11 games for his national team. He has great ball control and creativity, which will be useful tools to use against an Iranian defense that is going to be looking to sit back and absorb pressure.

Bruno Fernandes

Fernandes earned his spot in Portugal's midfield by staying positionally sound on both ends of the pitch. He's happy to help out the defense when he needs to and he's not afraid to take defenders on when he has one-on-one chances. He also has an excellent right-footed cross that bends around the defensive line.

Key Iran Injuries

No key injuries to report

Key Portugal Injuries

No key injuries to report

Who will win tonight's Iran/Portugal World Cup game against the spread?

Tony's Pick: Take Portugal -315

Get $60 worth of FREE premium member picks. No Obligation. No Salesman. No Credit Card. Fast Sign up with Instant Access Click Here

Start:	December 14, 2024 @ 10:07 PM
Expert:	Vernon Croy
Free $60 Account Sign Up

Iran vs Portugal Group B World Cup Picks & Predictions 6/25/2018

Most Recent Soccer Picks