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Portugal arrive with weighty expectations

Portugal arrive with the weighty expectations of demanding coach Carlos Queiroz on their shoulders.

The former assistant coach has tipped his side to be among the final four at the finals.

“Portugal is one of the favourites in the race for one of these places,” he insisted.

“History has shown us that there are always three big favourites in the semi-finals.

“In every match we have a good chance of winning. We know it and more importantly or rivals know it as well,” Queiroz said of his side ,who are ranked third in the world standings for the first time.

Portugal were semi-finalists twice and this time have been drawn in a group of death, alongside Brazil, Ivory Coast and North Korea.

“It’s a fantastic group for world football,” said Queiroz.

Squad

Goalkeepers: Eduardo, Daniel Fernandes and Beto.

Defenders: Miguel, Paulo Ferreira, Ricardo Carvalho, Bruno Alves, Rolando, Ricardo Costa, Duda and Fabio Coentrao.

Midfielders: Pedro Mendes, Pepe, Tiago, Deco, Raul Meireles and Miguel Veloso.

Strikers: Simao, Danny, Liedson, Hugo Almeida, Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani.