Liverpool had scouts present at the Euro 2024 qualifier in recent days to keep watch on two players in particular, Pedro Neto and Goncalo Inacio.
As per 90min, the Reds had their representatives in Zenica on Monday night to witness Portugal’s face-off against Bosnia-Herzegovina.
The Euro 2016 winners ran away with the game, winning 5-0 after scoring all their goals in the first half.
The Anfield scouting team was keeping a close eye on two of the most promising players. Goncalo Inacio, who featured for the entire match, and Pedro Neto, who came on as a substitute in the 66th minute.
And as stats go, both of them gave decent performances on the night for Roberto Martínez’s side.
Goncalo Inacio and Pedro Neto scouted by Liverpool
The Portuguese duo were impressive and particularly strong in terms of ball retention.
Inacio played 97 accurate passes out of 103, which was the second most of any Portuguese player on the night.
Meanwhile, Neto completed 16 passes with 100% accuracy after he came on in the second half. He has been brilliant for Wolverhampton this season as well with his performance against Man City earning him plaudits.
Inacio made two clearances and one interception, but their defence was barely tested. In fact, the Bosnians only managed 3 shots across the 90 minutes.
Although the duo were impressive, both were easily beaten in their individual duels, which might be a concern.
In fact, Neto contested just one and came out second-best. Meanwhile, surprisingly for a centre-back, Inacio won only one of his six battles on the night.
Nonetheless, the Reds’ scouting team will probably have liked what they saw overall from both players. It is safe to say that Liverpool might get their hands on some of the best talents if they are to pursue their interest.
By signing these two young stars, Liverpool could have greater quality with added depth in the squad.
I’m a football enthusiast and an avid writer and someone who lives by the Bill Shankly quote, on a day to day basis.