It's Portugal vs. Azerbaijan in the Group F 2014 World Cup Qualifier matchup at 1 p.m. ET. Check out the live stream at the bottom of the article, but first, check out the projected starting lineups and the importance of this matchup to both nations.
Portugal is currently sitting in third place in the Group F standings. They currently share the same record as second place Israel as both nations are 2-2-1, but Israel has been aggresive on offense scoring 13 goals. Sitting in first place is Russion as they are undefeated and have yet to allow a goal in four matches played.
In their last two matchups, Portugal has tied both Northern Ireland and Israel. They faced N. Ireland on Oct of 2012 and ended in a 1-1 draw, while they're fresh off their match against Israel were they finished in a 3-3 draw.
Their opponents, Azerbaijan, is battling to stay out of last place in Group F. They are currently fifth out of the six teams in the standings. In five games in this round, Azerbaijan has three points after posting a 0-3-2 record. They lack offense, but their defense isn't too bad. They are coming off a scoreless draw against Luxembourg who currently owns the final spot in the Group F standings.
For those wondering where Azerbaijan lies, here's a small map of the country.
Projected Lineups:
As you might have heard by now, Ronaldo is unavailable for this matchup after receiving a yellow card in the Portugal meeting against Israel. This is what their current lineup looks like.
Rui Patricio, Pereira, Alves, Pepe, Silvio, Martins, Voloso, Moutinho, Varela, Postiga, Vieririnha.
Azerbaijan looks to take: Agayev, Shukurov, Sadygov, Ramaldanov, Medvedev, Farjad-Azad, Abishov, Dzavadov, Ismayilov, Ayilev
Predictions: According to Goal.com, 78 percent of fans believe Portugal will win. 31 percent believe Portugal will win by a shutout.
