Portugal's Ronaldo and Pepe fit for Republic of Ireland friendly

Real Madrid stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Pepe have been passed fit for Portugal's friendly with the Republic of Ireland on Tuesday in the United States, just two days before the World Cup.

Updated on: Jun 13, 2014, 11:14:24 IST

AFP | By HT Correspondent, East Rutherford, United States

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Real Madrid stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Pepe have been passed fit for Portugal's friendly with the Republic of Ireland on Tuesday in the United States, just two days before the World Cup.

Portugal-s-Cristiano-Ronaldo-kicks-a-ball-toward-the-goal-during-training-in-Florham-Park-New-Jersey-AFP-photo

Experienced midfielder Raul Meireles, another key figure for Paulo Bento's side who has been struggling with injury, has also been given the green light.

Bento has not had a full squad to choose from for either of Portugal's previous two pre-World Cup friendlies, a 0-0 bore draw with Greece and an undeserved 1-0 win over Mexico.

Ronaldo, who has been hampered by thigh and knee problems, did not feature in either game and only returned to full training on Saturday, meaning he will likely start against Ireland on the bench.

"Paulo Bento can call on all his 23-man squad for the match against Ireland at the MetLife Stadium, New Jersey," the Portuguese FA said in a statement.

Portugal's campaign in Brazil kicks off against Germany on June 16.

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