At the National Team as at Benfica

Launched in Portugal's starting XI in the recent friendly match against Croatia, the benfiquistas Rúben Dias and Pizzi might play the first match as starters at Estádio da Luz representing the National team, against Italy, at 7:45 pm on Monday.

The national coach Fernando Santos, in the preview of the match from week 1 of the Nations League (Division A), lifted the veil a little bit by saying that the team will not be very different from the one that started the match against the World vice-champions.

“What interests me is the team dynamics, of the eleven players, that is what interested me. It was a globally positive match. IN relation to the question you asked me: do not expect many changes, no”, said Fernando Santos at the Press Room of Luz.

Playing against Italy, Pizzi will reach his 10th senior cap, while Rúben Dias will rack up his third.

Gedson is the third player from Benfica present in the working group. Although he should not feature in the starting XI, the young midfielder can be an option during the match.

A good image against Croatia

The benfiquistas put in a good performance on last Thursday's match against Croatia. Important in the 1-all draw, Pizzi made the assist for Pepe's header.

The midfielder, according to the platform Wyscout, was successful in 74% of the actions in which he was involved in the match. He completed 40 of the 48 passes (an 83% efficiency) and received the ball from his teammates in 36 occasions.

Rúben Dias played the 90’ and also made a good performance. He had success in 91% of the actions in which he took part in the encounter and a 98% pass efficacy (42 completed passes in 43). He also completed two of the three long passes he made.

Text: Marco Rebelo

Pics: FPF