Portugal may not have proved to be the best team in the World Cup history but their recent performance to qualify for Germany 2006 raises hopes for the squad.
They turned out to be a bundle of surprise in the qualifying rounds where they scored 35 goals, the maximum amongst all the European teams. They also have a seven points edge over others in their group.
The team underwent a tumultuous phase during 1934 to 1962 when it failed to qualify for the finals. But, a sudden third place ranking at the 1966 tournament let the world take notice of the team for the first time.
Portugal flaunts a quality player-list with Ricardo Carvalho and attackers like Cristiano Ronaldo and Deco.
Their chief striker Pauleta, who struck 11 of the 35 goals for the team during the qualifiers, is the biggest threat to its opponent teams. And under the guidance of experienced coach, Scolari, the team stands in good stead all the more.
COMPLETE SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Ricardo, Quim, Bruno Vale
Defenders: Paulo Ferreira, Caneira, Ricardo Costa, Fernando Meira, Miguel, Nuno Valente, Ricardo Carvalho
Midfielders: Costinha, Petit, Hugo Viana, Maniche, Tiago, Deco
Forwards: Luis Figo, Pauleta, Simao Sabrosa, Boa morte, Cristiano Ronaldo, Nuno Gomes, Helder Postiga.
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