(Football news) Portugal have had two wins in two games against Uruguay and Ghana. Even though their performance hasn\’t been incredible they have still got the job done. They need a point to make sure that they finish first even though they are likely to finish on top even with a loss. South Korea lost a thrilling match against Ghana and they need something special to go through. They will be focused on doing their part and beating Portugal. Portugal are likely to rest some of their players who have played both their matches. Nuno Mendes has been ruled out of the competition due to a thigh injury which is a big blow for Portugal.
For South Korea to win, Heung-Min Son will have to turn up. The Tottenham Hotspur forward had an eye injury just before the World Cup but still made it to the World Cup. His performance so far has been underwhelming as he hasn\’t had much of an impact but this match will be the perfect opportunity for him. At the other side Bruno Fernandes has been in incredible form but he is likely to start on the bench having played the full 90 minutes in both the games.
Cristiano Ronaldo has been involved in good things for Portugal in the 2 games but he isn\’t playing at his full potential. Ronaldo throughout his career has turned up on the big occasion so he cannot be counted out just yet. The service to him hasn\’t been amazing which is something Fernando Santos needs to look at. Santos may look to start him just to play freely and get some rhythm back. If Ronaldo does get a couple of goals in this match then it will be incredible news for Portugal.
The other match between Uruguay and Ghana is a virtual knockout. Portugal will definitely be looking to win this game and finish 1st as that will most likely mean that they won\’t have to face Brazil in the Round of 16. No team has been perfect in the group stage with 3 wins so far and if Portugal manage to do that then it will be a big boost for them. They will have to turn the tempo up for the knockouts and this squad has the potential to do that.
Also read: Should the World Cup rank teams based on fair play?
