The Portuguese under-19 soccer team will face Norway in the Eurocup semifinals, which, after a goalless draw on Monday with Spain, is second in group B.
A draw was enough for the Spaniards to secure first place, while Norway, led by the Portuguese Luís Pimenta, needed to win to achieve that goal, which would allow them to avoid meeting Portugal in the semi-finals.
However, Iceland, which also drew 0-0 with Greece on Monday, still had a chance of reaching second place if they won and the goal difference was in their favour, putting them in the path of Portugal in the semi-finals.
The match between Spaniards and Norwegians was marked by the lack of risk on both teams, more concerned with getting a place in the semifinals, aggravated by the high temperature felt, factors that made it a slow, predictable and well-played game. Inevitable play in the center of the field and away from the big areas.
In the other match in Group B, Iceland did not show the ability to discuss qualification by drawing 0-0 with Greece, a result that left the two teams in third and fourth place, respectively.
Spain thus won Group B with seven points, followed by Norway with five, Iceland with two and Greece with just one.
In view of Monday’s results, Portugal, which won Group A with only victories, adding nine points, will face Norway on Thursday, while Spain measures forces with Italy, second in the ‘quina selection’ group.
Portugal’s match will take place in the Maltese city of Paola, starting at 6:00 p.m. (5:00 p.m. in Lisbon), at the Tony Bezzina stadium, while Spain will discuss a place in the final against Italy in Ta’Qali, from from 9:00 p.m. (8:00 p.m.), at the National Stadium of Malta.
Source: TSF
