The Portuguese and Croats did not manage to break the tie (1-1). The two opponents of the evening, in reconstruction, already had the League of Nations in mind.
In a cover and gala match between the reigning European champion and the finalist of the last World Cup, there were no winners. At the end of a World Cup in half-tones for some and successful for others, the time for reconstruction has arrived for the Portuguese and Croats. While the Vatreni has to turn the page Subasic, Mandzukic, Corluka, the Selecao is changing its game identity. Without Cristiano Ronaldo, who stayed in Turin, the Portuguese made the game. They displayed a seductive face, alternating built-up play and fast play. Silva’s teammates were able to count on a very active Bruma. The RB Player Leipzig, who wore the number 7 of Cristiano Ronaldo,was a poison for the opposing defense as his eldest. In its wake, it is all Portugal that made the game, for the greatest happiness of the Public of the Estadio Algarve. Without a successful Kalinic, Fernando Santos ‘ men would have quickly led to the score.
A waltz of changes
But by taking advantage of a ball lost in the heart of Defence, the Croats opened the scoring. After a mix-up, Ivan Perisic misled Rui Patricio with a clear shot (18th, 0-1). A goal that didn’t cut the Portuguese legs. Shortly after, on a two-man corner, Pepe tied the lead (32nd, 1-1). But after that equaliser, the game went down in intensity. The release of Domagoj Vida on injury before the break was the first of 12 changes that chopped the course of the game. Opportunities have been scarce. Only two shots were fired in the second act. The teammates of a Luka Modric quickly came out and gave up possession in Portugal. The team on the checkerboard went round the back, working on defensive automatisms already well-established. Apart from the excesses of Joao Cancelo, no imbalance has been created. This zero score reassures everyone and doesn’t worry anyone. The cap is now put on the League of Nations. Starting next week, Portugal will challenge Italy and Croatia will face Spain in an official match. Another story for a new narrative.