(Football news) Portugal will begin their World Cup campaign with a clash against Ghana. All the talks in the media around Portugal have been about Cristiano Ronaldo and his explosive interview that eventually led to his exit. However, according to reports, that hasn't affected the mood in the camp as the squad is very motivated for the World Cup. Group H with Portugal, Ghana, Uruguay and South Korea is a difficult one. On paper, Portugal has a brilliant squad but they haven't been performing at their best for some time as they needed to go through the playoffs to qualify for the World Cup. 

Ronaldo has been under intense scrutiny over the last month. People seem to have forgotten what he has done in his career and he has been disrespected a lot. The Portuguese talisman needs to have a good World Cup to show everyone that he has still got it. Selecting a playing XI is going to be a very tough job for Portugal manager Fernando Santos. The contest starts in goal as all 3 keepers make a case for themselves. It will be interesting to see where Danilo Pereira plays because he can play in midfield and in defense. It is also unclear what formation Portugal plays as Santos has experimented with it recently. Apart from Ronaldo, the midfield duo of Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva are going to be very crucial. 

Ghana were eliminated in the group stage of last year's African Cup of Nations. They secured qualification by beating Nigeria on away goals. The group is a tough one for Ghana and they would have to be at their absolute best to get anywhere near qualification. Stopping Silva and Fernandez is going to be a big challenge for them. Thomas Partey in midfield is going to be very important for them and if he has a good day then Ghana are more than likely to get a result. Inaki Williams up top will also be very important.

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