Portuguese newspaper A Bola has revealed that a trio of players missed Portugal’s first training in the build-up to the 2014 World Cup qualifier against Northern Ireland.
Captain Cristiano Ronaldo and key midfielder Danny were missing through muscle problems, whereas back-up keeper Beto failed to appear due to a hip injury.
Nevertheless, the Portugal FA later announced that all three players should be fit to face Northern Ireland, which is going to be a huge boost for boss Paulo Bento.
In spite of the pretty slow start to the qualifying campaign, the Seleccao returned to the first place in the group with back to back victories over Azerbaijan and Russia.
However, with just three games to go, they are two points clear of Russia, who happen to have a game in hand, meaning that Paulo Bento’s side cannot afford any more slip-ups if they are to remain in contention for a place at the tournament finals.
As a result, Portugal are 1.33 (1/3) with Coral to triumph in Belfast, whereas they are no less than 3.25 (9/4) at William Hill to finish top of Group F.
After facing Northern Ireland on Friday in Belfast, the Seleccao play Brazil in a high-profile friendly in
Massachusets.
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