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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Matt Verri

Portugal World Cup 2022 guide: Star player, fixtures, squad, one to watch, odds to win

Portugal got past Turkey and North Macedonia in the play-offs to seal their place in Qatar, as they look to improve their poor recent World Cup record, after failing to make it further than the last-16 in the last three tournaments.

They are going somewhat under the radar, as ever, despite an incredibly strong squad on paper but are capable of grinding their way through to the latter stages, though likely need to top the group to stay clear of a last-16 clash against Brazil.

Here’s everything you need to know about Portugal…

Coach: Fernando Santos. His cautious approach led Portugal to Euro 2016 glory but pressure is starting to build on the 68-year-old.

Captain: Cristiano Ronaldo. Arriving with a point to prove at surely his last World Cup, he will enjoy every second away from Manchester.

Star player: Bruno Fernandes. The Manchester United midfielder has scored more goals for Portugal in 2022 than anyone.

One to watch: Rafael Leao. With Diogo Jota out, the AC Milan winger has the chance to shine.

Odds to win: 14/1

World ranking: 9

Best thing about them: No real weak areas in the squad, which serves them well in the crunch knockout games.

One to watch: Leao has been in excellent form for AC Milan (Getty Images)

Worst thing about them: The football is hardly attractive considering the attacking options available.

Their prospects in three words: Must top group.

Fixtures (all times GMT)

November 24 vs Ghana (4pm)

November 28 vs Uruguay (7pm)

December 2 vs South Korea (3pm)

Squad in full

Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa, Jose Sa, Rui Patricio

Defenders: Diogo Dalot, Joao Cancelo, Danilo Pereira, Pepe, Ruben Dias, Antonio Silva, Nuno Mendes, Raphael Guerreiro

Midfielders: Joao Palhinha, Ruben Neves, Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, Joao Mario, Matheus Nunes, Vitinha, William Carvalho, Otavio

Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Felix, Rafael Leao, Ricardo Horta, Goncalo Ramos, Andre Silva

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