Portugal gets ‘help’ from Real Madrid

Portugal has received assistance from Real Madrid in its quest for a first World Cup title, even though it plays Spain in the opening game.

By allowing Cristiano Ronaldo to sit out less meaningful matches, Madrid’s management of the 33-yearold forward in the twilight of his career means he should not be worn out in Russia.

The five-time world player of the year is leading a squad that broke through to win its first major title at the 2016 European Championship.

“Ronaldo is crucial,” Portugal coach Fernando Santos said, “but we know that to win we need to play well as a team.”

Santos accepts that Portugal is not among the leading contenders for the title in Russia, even though there’s a familiar look about the squad. From the team that started in the final against France two years ago, only Nani and Renato Sanches will not make it to Russia.

Here’s a closer look at the Portugal team: COACH, The softly-spoken Santos spent most of his career coaching clubs in Greece and Portugal, including Porto, Sporting Lisbon and Benfica, before being handed the Greece national team job in 2010.

GOALKEEPERS. Rui Patricio of Sporting Lisbon should be starting in goal for another tournament after keeping clean sheets in the semifinals and final at Euro 2016. The reserves will be Anthony Lopes and Beto, with Benfica’s Bruno Varela as a reserve option.

DEFENDERS. Just like at every major tournament since Euro 2008, expect to see veterans Pepe and Bruno Alves in command in central defense.

Cedric Soares is preferred at right back, with Borussia Dortmund defender Raphael Guerreiro likely on the left.

MIDFIELDERS. Joao Mario and William Carvalho are expected to anchor the midfield again, with Adrien Silva and Joao Moutinho fighting for a spot as attacking midfielders along with Bernardo Silva.

FORWARDS. This is Ronaldo’s domain. After a slow start to the season, Ronaldo has rediscovered his scoring consistency at Real Madrid since January. /