FIFA World Cup 2010: Portugal vs. Brazil Preview...Cristiano Ronaldo Fired Up

The World Cup group games have been leading to this game. When the draw was first made, all eyes were on this game. Brazil are through to the last 16, but Portugal's future in the tournament is not certain.  

Their current form suggests that Portugal will be underdogs, and Brazil usually play better when they are slight favourites.

Cristiano Ronaldo is a world-class player who will be looking to be the star of the show. However, he has been criticized in the past at Manchester United for not playing well in important matches. This has leaked through to his international performance.

It remains to be seen if the poster boy of world football can finally put his fingerprints on the cup, or if it will be the boys in yellow who win at again. 

When you think of the World Cup, the first team that pops into your head is the Brazilians. Is it the five World Cup wins, the yellow jerseys, the mystical names, or a collection of the most skilled footballers in the world? Brazil is always the team to watch and the team to beat in the World Cup.

Not only are Brazil and Portugal ranked first and third in the FIFA World Ranking, both teams go into the game on the back of two of the best performances so far at South Africa 2010.

The South Americans got a convincing 3-1 win against Côte d’Ivoire, while the Europeans recorded an amazing 7-0 victory over Korea DPR.

Brazil's 100 percent start has guaranteed them a place in the second round, and all Portugal need is a draw to secure their place.

The only way Portugal can get knocked out is if they lose and the Ivory Coast beats Korea by a massive score, as they are nine goals behind.

Kaka will miss the game as he was suspended after receiving a harsh red card. Fellow attacking midfielder Elano is also doubtful after picking up an injury.

Portugal’s Brazil-born star Deco has also picked up a slight injury, which may mean he misses the match.