Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal require a major swing in goal difference if they are to reach the knockout stages of the World Cup.

From their first two group fixtures, the European nation have collected just one point, conceding six goals and scoring just two in the process. Consequently, with only Ghana left to play in Brasilia on Thursday, Portugal stand on the cusp of elimination.

In terms of team selection, Ronaldo is expected to be feature despite a persistent knee problem, but a hamstring complaint has ruled out full-back Fabio Coentrao. Centre-back Bruno Alves is also believed to be struggling to shake off a knock, but Pepe will return from suspension.

Like their Portuguese counterparts, Ghana also have a solitary point, although at -1, their goal difference could prove to be pivotal if the USA were to lose to Germany in the other group encounter.

Head coach Kwesi Appiah will have to make do without the services of Sulley Muntari, who is suspended, but Kevin-Prince Boateng is expected to keep his place in the starting lineup.

Recent form

Portugal: WDWWLD

Ghana: DLLWLD

Possible starting lineups

Portugal: Beto; Alves, Pereira, Pepe, Costa; Veloso, Meireles, Moutinho; Nani, Ronaldo, Postiga

Ghana: Dauda; Afful, Mensah, Boye, Asamoah; Rabiu, Badu, Boateng; Atsu, A Ayew, Gyan

Sports Mole says: 1-1

Written by
Liam Apicella

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