The somewhat fortunate victory over Ghana saw the United States seriously improve their qualifying chances, meaning that even a draw against Portugal would put them in a good position to qualify. Meanwhile, the Seleccao have no choice but to defeat USA following the 4-0 hammering at the hands of Germany.

Out to upset the odds

While winning their qualifying group to make it to the tournament finals, USA did not really impress in friendly fixtures despite winning all three warm-up games. Jurgen Klinsmann’s side were constantly criticized for struggling in the build-up play and lack of quality up front, so it is fair to say nobody expected they could progress from the group that also contains the likes of Germany, Portugal and Ghana. But, Team USA got off to a perfect start as Clint Dempsey scored within the first minute of the opening match against Ghana, while they rode their luck for large periods of the game before John Brooks scored the winner late into the game. That result puts United States in a good position ahead of the final two fixtures, but they still face an uphill task against wounded Portugal. Just like their next opponents, USA have got plenty of injury worries, but the problem is they do not exactly have decent replacements for the absentees. And with Jurgen Klinsmann’s side often struggling when facing European teams, I seriously doubt they have what it takes to match Portugal.

Starting striker Jozy Altidore is definitely out of the Portugal clash, but Clint Dempsey, Matt Besler and Alejandro Bedoya are fit to play.

Portugal aim to make things right

After impressing at the Euro 2012, Portugal were tipped to reach the final stages of the 2014 World Cup, but they had a very poor start to the tournament finals. Despite looking good in the opening exchanges, the Seleccao eventually lost the game 4-0, with Pepe seeing red and the likes of Fabio Coentrao and Hugo Almeida forced to come off through injury. Having just resumed full training, star players Cristiano Ronaldo was well below par, but I still feel Portugal should not be written off just yet. Even with several players struggling through injury, Paulo Bento has a very good squad at his disposal that also boast a wealth of experience of playing at major tournaments, so I fully expect them to deliver a good response in the second group game against United States. Portugal players will have had almost a full week to recover from the Germany defeat and prepare for the next game, meaning they should look much sharper in the second fixture. With Ronaldo passed fit to play, the Real Madrid superstar can also be expected to turn on the style.

Pepe serves a one-match ban for headbutting Thomas Muller, whilst Rui Patricio, Fabio Coentrao and Hugo Almeida are out injured. Bruno Alves is doubtful through a groin problem.

Verdict

Despite showing some potential in their opening fixture, United States were very fortunate to snatch all three points, and this will be a whole different ball game. Even with several players missing, Portugal should have enough quality and experience to revive their qualifying hopes with a comfortable win.

Top pick: Away win   1.73 (8/11) @ William Hill

Alternative pick 1: Ronaldo to score   1.80 (4/5) @ 888sport

Alternative pick 2: Away win + both teams to score   3.70 (27/10) @ Ladbrokes