FIFA World Cup 2018: Portugal pin hopes on Ronaldo
Portugal go into the 2018 FIFA World Cup with a mission to do well at the biggest stage. They stunned France to lift the 2016 European Championship and qualified for the event in Russia by topping their group via goal-difference over Switzerland. In the recent friendly matches, they played out two successive draws including a 0-0 result against Belgium. Here we analyze Portugal's side.
Ronaldo the vital cog in this Portugal side
Real Madrid talisman Cristiano Ronaldo would be Portugal's main man. The former Manchester United player won his 5th career Champions League title recently. His hunger for trophies means he will be determined to make the difference for his side in the big games.
Patricio to lead goalkeeping challenge
Sporting Lisbon's Rui Patricio has been in the Portugal set up since the past 8 years. The Sporting legend is a trustworthy player and has appeared in 450+ matches for his club. He played a key role in the 2016 Euro as well. The 30-year-old will be backed by veteran shot-stopper Beto and Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes.
Portugal build their defensive structure around seasoned veterans
Portugal's defense has its base around players in mid-thirties. The likes of veterans Pepe and Bruno Alves lead the line, besides 34-year-old Jose Fonte. Either Mario Rui or Raphael Guerreiro will provide the energy at left-back. 26-year-old Cedric Soares of Southampton will fight for a place with Leicester City's Ricardo Pereira at right-back. Uncapped Ruben Dias is a back-up as central defender.
Mid-field lacks the cutting edge
The mid-field of Portugal does not have the X-factor. William Carvalho, who was once touted to join a big club in Europe, hasn't quite shined to that world class level. Veteran Joao Moutinho is likely to feature alongside West Ham United's Joao Mario. Bruno Fernandes provides some enthusiasm. Adrien Silva and Manuel Fernandes would make up the bench.
Ronaldo, Bernardo Silva lead the attacking line
Ronaldo is the main threat in the attack alongside Manchester City play-maker Bernardo Silva. The latter holds the key for making those key passes and run-ins to provide the side chances. Old-horse Ricardo Quaresma features alongside Andre Silva. Both have had poor club campaigns in the 2017-18 season. Promising 21-year-old PSG winger Goncalo Guedes provides much needed width alongside Sporting's Gelson Martins.
