Iran have been plagued by injury worries and restlessness in the team camp as they prepare for their second match in Group D against Portugal today.

No such concerns, bar a question mark over the fitness of winger Cristiano Ronaldo who trained separately this week, dog Portugal who with three points in the bag are looking to book a place in the World Cup knockout phase with another victory.

"This match is like a final for both teams," said Portugal captain Luis Figo.

Having lost 3-1 to Mexico after a shoddy second half, Iran got a timely boost yesterday evening when veteran striker Ali Daei was declared fit to play, his coach Branko Ivankovic said.

"After the match against Mexico, Ali Daei was struggling but now he's fit. He is an important leader and can make sure that we are going to get a good result," Ivankovic said.

Ali Daei, 37, Iran's captain and the only footballer to score more than 100 international goals, looked uncertain for today's match after a back injury and has come under criticism for his performance in the first match.

Iran's presence in Germany has been frequently overshadowed by politics, something Ivankovic has repeatedly tried - and failed - to deflect.

Coupled with poor performances by some of Iran's Bundesliga players, the mood in the camp is far from upbeat after the 3-1 defeat.

"The players were not satisfied after Mexico. Now we have to prepare ourselves mentally against Portugal," Ivankovic said.

Portugal are more relaxed after their 1-0 win over Angola although, given that their performance against their former colony was distinctly underwhelming, they need another win to avoid a tough showdown with Mexico in their last group game.

The squad are aware that Iran, eager to salvage something of their reputation, will fight hard today.

"I know we always say it but this will be a difficult game. There are no easy games," Figo said.

Midfielder Costinha said Portugal watched Iran's defeat by Mexico and had been impressed with their first-half performance, especially their speed and strength in the midfield and attack.

But he was confident that the precise preparations made by coach Luiz Felipe Scolari would serve Portugal well.

Probable teams

Portugal (4-4-2): 1-Ricardo; 13-Miguel, 16-Carvalho, 5-Meira, 14-Valente; 8-Petit, 18-Maniche, 11-Sabrosa, 7-Figo; 17-Ronaldo; 9-Pauleta.

Iran (4-2-3-1): 1-Mirzapour; 13-Kaebi, 5-Rezaei, 4-Golmohammadi, 20-Nosrati; 6-Nekonam, 14-Teymourian; 2-Mahdavikia, 9-Hashemian, 8-Karimi; 10-Daei.

Referee: Eric Poulat (France).