Ghana may have eliminated one of the favourites to win the World Cup by defeating Switzerland, but they will still need to be at their best to beat Portugal in the Group H opener on Today.
Portugal narrowly missed out on a trip to Qatar after losing to Serbia in the final group qualifying match in the 90th minute, dropping to second place and into a tense playoff.
However, Portugal defied the odds by defeating Turkey and North Macedonia to qualify for its eighth World Cup.
They have a number of players capable of causing serious problems for a Ghana side that is only just getting started this winter.
Rafael Leão
Leo has always been a mature athlete, and his athletic profile sets a high standard for his skill set.
He is not only tall and lean, but he also has a strong burst and top-end speed, making him a very dynamic forward. He’s also gained muscle mass as he’s grown. Overall, Leo is a versatile athlete.
In terms of playstyle and skill set, Leo is a dynamic presence in the forward line who typically plays off the left in senior football after developing as a centre-forward at youth level.
With and without the ball, his movements stretch and disrupt defenses.
is a prolific and skilled dribbler who drives from deep and beats opponents in one-on-one situations around the box with skill and changes of speed.
He doesn’t provide much in the way of a passing threat, but he gets into good positions inside the box through dribbles and movement, which is his main strength.
He has also improved as a finisher, finishing in more areas.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Despite being released by Manchester United on Tuesday, Ronaldo is expected to go all out in what is likely to be the star’s final World Cup appearance.
His 117 goals (international men’s record) in 191 international appearances (Portuguese record) should only increase in Qatar.
In addition to his illustrious career, the 37-year-old could become the first men’s player to score in five World Cups (Marta has done so for the Brazilian women’s team).
Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes will have a memorable World Cup, and Portugal expects the Manchester United star to shine in Qatar. He would be the most valuable asset to Portugal’s World Cup success.
He’s been outstanding since moving to the Premier League. When Manchester United finished second in the table, he was the leading goal-scorer with 28 goals.
Fernandes recently signed a new contract with Manchester United that will keep him at the club until June 2026. Bruno was instrumental in Portugal’s victory in the inaugural Nations League.
He was named to the “Team of the Tournament” for his performances throughout the competition. He has made 48 appearances for Portugal and scored nine goals.
Fernandes will be crucial in breaking down opposing defences and unleashing an attack that, on paper, appears to be one of the tournament’s most terrifying.
Rúben Dias
After an outstanding 2020-21 season with Manchester City, the defender has established himself as one of the world’s best central defenders.
Dias was named Premier League Player of the Year as well as UEFA Champions League Defender of the Year that year.
While Portugal has excellent fullbacks in Joo Cancelo and Nuno Mendes, Dias is a defensive leader who combines excellent tactical awareness and passing skills with a commanding physical presence.
SOURCE: Kickgh.com
