With Cristiano Ronaldo out of the squad, Portugal are keen on optimizing their preparation for the upcoming Euro 2024, and as part of this effort, they will clash with Sweden, a team in the midst of rejuvenation, in a 2024 international friendly. This preview will explore the likely starting lineups for both squads, underlining the anticipated intensity and competitiveness of the match, which may prove to be tighter than initially thought.
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This friendly marks a period of transition for two teams aiming for rejuvenation. With Cristiano Ronaldo‘s age making his participation in the next World Cup unlikely, Portugal are at a juncture where renewal is imperative. The emergence of young talents, such as Gonzalo Ramos, signals a promising future, yet it’s crucial for them to begin making their mark.
For Sweden, the time since the 2018 World Cup in Russia have been filled with setbacks. Facing a European heavyweight in this friendly offers a valuable opportunity to shape their starting XI for upcoming competitions, setting the stage for a much-needed turnaround.
Portugal’s lineup
Portugal’s confirmed lineup: Rui Patricio, Nelson Semedo, Pepe, Ruben Dias, Nuno Mendes, Matheus Nunes, Joao Palhinha, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Goncalo Ramos and Rafael Leao.
Sweden’s lineup
Sweden’s confirmed lineup: Robin Olsen, Victor Nilsson Lindeloff, Isak Hien, Ludwig Augustinsson, Emil Holm, Jens Cajuste, Mattias Svanberg, Alexander Isak, Anthony Elanga, Dejan Kulusevski and Viktor Gyökeres.