Nuno Mendes
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Delivers from left-back
Mendes generated one cross (zero accurate) and three chances created in Saturday's 0-0 draw against Colombia.
Analysis: Mendes registered three chances created and one cross across his 89 minutes in Saturday's 0-0 draw with Colombia, consistently advancing from left-back to support Portugal's attacking transitions and delivering the most creative output of any Portuguese defender throughout the match. The PSG left-back combined his forward runs with the defensive discipline required to contain Colombia's right channel, and his three chances created were the most of any defender on the pitch from either side. His ability to arrive into dangerous areas from deep and deliver quality balls into the box make him one of the most important players in Portugal's system heading into the Croatia fixture.
Could be managed physically
Mendes could be managed physically and start on the bench for Tuesday's clash against Uzbekistan, according to SIC Noticias.
Analysis: Mendes struggled to find his usual rhythm in Wednesday's 1-1 draw against DR Congo, recording three crosses without success despite a few promising moments in the final third. Coach Roberto Martinez could opt to manage physically the PSG winger as part of a squad rotation, with Portugal managing his workload ahead of the rest of the tournament. If that is the case, Joao Cancelo could start on the left side of the back line and Diogo Dalot start on the right.
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