(Getty)
The European champions will take on the kings of South America in the first of two Confederations Cup semifinals.
Portugal has continued their success since last summer’s EURO victory, and Ronaldo is prepping the team for one last run at the world’s biggest prize next year. Portugal went unbeaten through group play, including a 4-0 thrashing of New Zealand.
While Ronaldo garners the attention, another dynamo is blossoming in Russia. Cedric Soares is Portugal’s 25-year old right back, but his performances in the group stage have made soccer pundits take notice. Soares currently plays for Southampton in England, but rumors are circling that Juventus may scoop him up.
Chile left the result in doubt until the final day, but advanced as the runners-up in Group B. There was a small concern when they conceded to Australia in their last group match, but a 1-1 draw was enough to send them through. Chile are, on average, the oldest team competing in Confederations Cup, and they’ve been doing so without their star keeper. Claudio Bravo has been out of action since late April, but started against Australia and should be ready for the semifinals.
Portugal has the better weapons in this matchup, but it’s all about the pressure of Chile. They are a defense-first team, and will try to force Portugal into mistakes in their own half. Portugal might try to play the counter, which could make this a slow match. If Portugal wants to go to penalties, Chile will be very much fine with that result.
Here’s everything you need to know about the first semifinal:
Portugal vs. Chile Viewing Info
Date: Wednesday, June 28th, 2017
Time: 2:00 p.m. ET
Location: Kazan Arena, Kazan
TV Channel: Fox Sports 1 & Telemundo