MATCH 17 PREVIEW : LISBON BRACED FOR DERBY EPIC

Two changes
Scolari's Spanish counterpart, Iñaki Sáez, has been forced into making two changes with Real Betis Balompié’s Juanito Gutiérrez expected to be introduced for the suspended Carlos Marchena while Joaquín Sánchez will replace the injured Joseba Etxeberria on the right side of midfield. These are not the only alterations: Xabi Alonso will replace Rubén Baraja in centre midfield and Fernando Torres will partner Raúl González up front, with Fernando Morientes dropping to the bench.

A nation expects
For the Portuguese, elimination at the group stage would be a major disappointment for a team that has invested in hiring a FIFA World Cup-winning coach in Scolari, and a team including world stars such as Luís Figo and Deco as well as several members of FC Porto's UEFA Champions League-winning side.

History favours Spain
History suggests that Spain will have the upper hand, as they have only lost on six occasions in 34 meetings against their neighbours. The sides most recently met in Guimarães in September 2003, when Spain recorded their 16th victory as goals from Etxeberria, Joaquín and Diego Tristán led them to a 3-0 success. The previous five meetings ended in scoring draws, with Portugal recording their last win in June 1981 when goals from Nené and António Nogueira gave them a 2-0 success in Porto.

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Spain: Casillas; Puyol, Helguera, Juanito, Raúl Bravo; Joaquín, Albelda, Xabi Alonso, Vicente; Raúl, Torres.

Portugal (probable): Ricardo; Paulo Ferreira, Jorge Andrade, Ricardo Carvalho, Nuno Valente; Luís Figo, Costinha, Deco, Maniche, Simão Sabrosa; Pauleta.

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