Portugal vs USA: Match Preview and Probable Lineup

Portugal and USA play each other in their second match of Group G of FIFA World Cup 2014

This will be the second meeting between the sides in international Arena after the World cup 2002 encounter between the sides. USA were then victorious by 3-2 in the match held at Kora/Japan World Cup. USA were 3-0 up within 35 minutes that time but the scenario is changed this time.

Portugal lost their first match of the group against Germany by 4-0. Thomas Muller hat-trick inspired Germany to a massive win in the match which saw Real Madrid defender Pepe sent off and Mats Hummels score a header. A loss here will mean they are out of the tournament.

USA won their first match of the group against Ghana after John Brooks scored coming from the bench just five minutes before the time. Clint Dempsey scored in 30th second of the match but Ghana later equalized through Andre Ayew. A win will mean they will be at the top of the group and booked their place for next round.

Team News:

Portugal will be without suspended defender Pepe and Ricardo Costa will replace him. Fabio Coentrao is out injured and Andre Almeida will replace him at the left back. Helder Postiga or Eder will start in place of unfit Hugo Almeida.

Jozy Altidore was subbed off due to injury in previous match and it is unlikely Klinsimann will be risking him for this match. Clint Dempsey might start as lone man up front with Graham Zusi in contention to start the match in wide position. John Brooks is expected to start from the bench like he did in previous match.

Probable Starting Lineup:

USA:

Formation: 4 – 4 – 1 – 1

Tim Howard (GK): Fabian Johnson, Geoff Cameron, Matt Besler, DaMarcus Beasley: Graham Zusi, Jermain Jones, Michael Bradley, Brad Davis: Clint Dempsey: Jozy Altidore

Portugal:

Formation: 4 – 3 – 3

Rui Patricio (GK) : Andre Almeida, Ricardo Costa, Bruno Alves, Joao Pereira: Joao Moutinho, William Carvalho, Raul Meireles: Cristiano Ronaldo, Eder, Silvestre Varela