Portugal vs North Macedonia: 2022 World Cup qualifier preview

North Macedonia will be facing Portugal for a spot in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The Lions have progressed to the finals of their path after beating European champions Italy in a shocking game. 

While they aren’t on the same level as Portugal given their starpower, they have proved that they can defeat some of the best teams in the world. Germany and Italy have already fallen prey to the giant killers, and Fernando Santos’ side could be next on the list. 

North Macedonia not to be counted out against Portugal 

The Prime Minister of the country has promised the players a €500,000 reward if they are able to beat Portugal and secure a spot in the World Cup later this year. 

However, Portugal will be extra motivated to not miss out on the tournament this year. They have competed in every edition of the World Cup this century, and last missed out in 1998. The 2022 edition will probably be Cristiano Ronaldo’s last World Cup, and the 37-year-old will be extra motivated to lead his side to the biggest footballing competition one last time. 

Portugal will be having some of their best players in the squad, with Diogo Jota, Cristiano Ronaldo, Bernardo Silva and Joao Felix all making the squad. And as a result, they head into the match as clear favourites. But, they will have to be at the top of their game to repeat their convincing win against Turkey and secure a spot in Qatar. 

Read: Portugal vs North Macedonia: Lineup and how to watch the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifier match live in India?