Preview: Portugal – Brazil

(GSM) – With both sides having virtually locked up their spots in the Round of 16, there will be nothing but a lot of Portuguese-speaking pride on the line when Portugal and Brazil square off on Friday in Durban.

Portugal stormed to life in a 7-0 rout of Korea DPR last time out, putting themselves well ahead of Côte d’Ivoire on potential goal difference. That result all but secured their berth in the last 16 with a nine-goal edge on the Ivorians.

Brazil, meanwhile, secured a 3-1 victory over those Ivorians in their last game to ensure they go into the big showdown on six points. A draw will be enough to see that Brazil win the group and move on to face the runners-up in Group H.

Portugal must win in order to claim top billing in what was considered the group of death.

For Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz, he is likely to be without playmaker Deco with an injury, and he is certain to be without Ruben Amorim off the bench.

Tiago, who scored two goals and played very well against Korea DPR, will start in the stead of Deco.

The big absence for Brazil is Kaká, who is suspended after being foolishly sent off late on in the win over Côte d’Ivoire. In addition, there are doubts over the fitness of Elano with a leg injury.

Spots could, therefore, open up for Nilmar and Júlio Baptista, though Ramires might also see some significant action in the Brazilian attack.

With both sides likely advancing on, yellow cards could become an issue.

For Portugal, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Mendes and Hugo Almeida are all sitting on a booking that could prove costly if they earn a second yellow against Brazil.

Brazil, meanwhile, will want to avoid a second caution for Ramires.