In their first Group G encounter, the Americans pulled out a convincing victory against a very stubborn Ghana while their opponents Portugal played a very undisciplined game against Germany.
In their first Group G encounter, the Americans pulled out a convincing victory against a very stubborn Ghana while their opponents Portugal played a very undisciplined game against Germany, including that Pepe straight red. Don’t expect this game to a dull one! With more attackers in both the teams, expect them to play out an exciting and riveting contest. These two have played each other five times previously with each team winning two, plus a draw. Here is what one could expect from Portugal and the USA:
USA:
Strengths – Their rigid display against Ghana could be the stepping stone in this clash against the Portuguese. Jozy Altidore, Clint Dempsey and Freddy Edu have World Cup experience and could play a key role in this game. With USA starting off with a win, coach Jurgen Klinsmann would want to add another victory against Cristiano Ronaldo’s men.
Weakness – The defence needs to stay strong. With powerful attackers in Portugal, the likes of Tim Howard and the defenders need to stay on their toes or could get themselves thrashed.
Portugal:
Strengths – Attack remains their key weapon against the USA. Cristiano Ronaldo leads the line of attack with the likes of Nani and Jao Moutinho too coming into the fray.
Weakness – With Pepe dismissed and Fabio Coentrao on the treatment table, Portugal could be handicapped in the defence against USA who could leave them open.
Portugal can clinch this, if the ‘real’ Cristiano Ronaldo stands up!
