The UEFA Champions League is the pinnacle of European club football, and Portuguese teams have always been a force to be reckoned with in this prestigious tournament. With their rich history and talented players, Portuguese teams offer some exciting fantasy football picks for Champions League enthusiasts.
There are two Portuguese clubs in this seasons edition of the Champions League with Benfica and Sporting both representing the country in the tournament which is set to kick off their redesigned league phase next week.
We take a look at both clubs and the players that can be great additions to your season’s Champions League fantasy football squad.
BENFICA
Otamendi – The clubs captain is a beast in the center of the field and a ball recovery king during the competition. He finished in top 15 last season in recoveries, tackles and tackles won during the competition. The veteran will earn valuable points while costing little to acquire.
Orkun Kukcu – The Turkish midfielder will look to provide the attack from the middle of the field for Benfica and if the former Eredivisie player of year can find that form once again. His fantasy numbers should provide fantasy managers with optimal output this season.
Angel di Maria – The highest valued Benfica player in most fantasy leagues this season, he is a threat attacking from the wing and is Benfica’s go too player from the penalty spot. Look for the majority of Benfica’s attack to come through the Argentinian player.
Vangelis Pavlidis – The Eredivisie golden boot winner at AZ Alkmaar last season will be counted on to provide scoring from the number nine position. A prolific goal scorer boasts strong ball control and is capable of snuffing out chances with his shrewd positioning.
Kerem Akturkoglu – The last minute edition on deadline day, you can look for the Turkish winger to provide a high pace of play with mesmeric dribbling skills. He plays mostly on the left wing and will provide plenty of crosses into the box which should increase his chances of acquiring assists in the competition.
SPORTING
Goncal Inacio – One of the best young center backs in Portugal, the 23 year old enjoys having the ball at his feet and can comfortably play out from the back line. He scored three goals in nine Europa League games last season and can be added to fantasy squads for an affordable price.
Morten Hjulmand – The defensive midfielder is an intelligent player who reads the game well, which in turn leads to him gaining a high percentage of interceptions and turning that into line breaking passes. He can also shoot from long ranges making him a threat from outside the box.
Geny Catamo – He plays both the right and left side of the midfield and has a lethal eye for goal. His offensive output is always better though when he is on the right side of the field. Look for the 23 year old to be included in Sporting’s starting eleven on a regular basis.
Pedro Goncalves – The explosive winger is a lethal attacker and can both score while providing his share of assists. His versatility allows him to play comfortably in a host of positions with the squad which all but guarantees that he will play maximum minutes.
Viktor Gyokeres – All he does is score goals since arriving at Sporting last summer, the Portuguese League player of the year has potted 50 club goals in 55 appearances. The highest valued fantasy player on the squad can be had for a very reasonable price point.