World Cup Team Preview - Portugal

World Cup Group: Group D (Angola, Iran, Mexico)

Exactly forty years after their first foray in the World Cup, Portugal on paper look to be one of the few sides capable of lifting the trophy in Germany.

Back in 1966 a Eusebio inspired Portuguese outfit famously reached the semi finals only to be knocked out by eventual winners England, and this appears the country's best chance since of achieving that kind of success.

This World Cup is only their fourth but with a team full of brilliant individuals on the back of the Euro 2004 final appearance against Greece, they strolled to qualification this time around with a quite stunning 35 goals in 12 unbeaten matches.

Once the World's most expensive footballer, Luis Figo returned to captain the side after taking some time off international football and will hope to lead his country to glory in what will surely be his final tournament.

Strengths

This side simply oozes quality. Their fluid 4-2-3-1 formation allows the greatest possible freedom for their key players, and World Cup winning Brazilian coach Luiz Felipe Scolari ensures his side plays beautiful attacking football.

Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is still a precocious talent at just 21, but with a phenomenal Euro 2004 already under his belt the amazingly talented winger just be one of the stand outs of the tournament.

Barcelona playmaker Deco is similarly vital, while Figo and prolific striker Pauleta round out an attacking quartet capable of destroying any defence on their day.

However do not make the mistake of assuming the Portuguese defence is therefore weak, possessing the likes of Chelsea duo Ricardo Carvalho and Paulo Ferreira who ably provide cover to the more attacking members of the team.

Weaknesses

If there is a playing weakness in this line up it is probably goalkeeper Ricardo, but of more concern will be the mental fragility which unfortunately seems to arise whenever Portugal needs strength the most.

Prediction

Scolari's men are amongst the most enjoyable teams to watch in the competition and with some good form and a bit of luck, don't be at all shocked to see this side finally realise their promise and reach a first World Cup final come July.

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