Portugal are ranked third in the World Cup but have to pass favorites Brazil to reach the last 16 on June 26.
Second place in Group G may be the best the talented Europeans can hope. This would probably mean a knockout match in the round of 16 with geographical neighbors Spain who are expected to top Group H.
Portugal’s first match is against Ivory Coast on Monday, June 14 has been marred by injury. Their Manchester United winger Nani will not take part in the tournament after a collarbone injury last week in training.
The 23-year-old had scored three goals in 11 qualifying games and enjoyed a productive end of the Premier League season with United. Benfica midfielder Ruben Amorim will replace Nani, who, despite having difficulty finding a first team place at the start of his season at Manchester United, finished strong. Amorim played 24 times for Benfica who won the Portuguese championship.
Real Madrid’s central defender Pepe is also of concern to Portugal. He has been nursing a knee injury since December and has not played in the starting 11 since then. However, both club and national team doctors say he will be fit to play at some point in the competition.
