Portuguese Star Cristiano Ronaldo To Start Against USA In World Cup

Portugal will have its star striker on the field Sunday against the United States.

Cristiano Ronaldo, who has been nursing knee and thigh injuries, will be ready to go for the Group G game at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, according to Portugal coach Paulo Bento.

“Cristiano played the last game,” midfielder Raul Meireles said, via ESPN. “He trains every day with all of us. Cristiano is fit to play, that’s all I can say.”

Ronaldo’s inclusion in the lineup is a good sign for Portugal, but the road to the knockout stage will not be an easy one. Portugal was crushed by Germany 4-0 in its first match and will be without at least four players for the game against the United States. Pepe — one of Portugal’s top defenders — will sit out because of a red card he took against Germany.

Bento had to make multiple lineup changes, but he said those playing against the U.S. will be ready to go.

“The players know who will be playing, they know what they have to do and they know what the opponent does,” Bento said.

Portugal needs to at least earn one point to have a chance at advancing to the next round. The U.S. can clinch a spot in the knockout stage with a win. Game time is set for 6 p.m. ET.

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Photo via Twitter/@BostonGlobe