Manager: Carlos Queiroz

Key player: Cristiano Ronaldo

Best: Fourth place (2006)

World ranking: 5

Despite having Cristiano Ronaldo, the 2008 Fifa World Player of the Year, in their ranks, Portugal made hard work of qualifying. They were languishing in fourth in Group One at one stage before a late rally earned them second and a play-off berth. Without the injured Ronaldo they secured a place in South Africa thanks to two hard-fought 1-0 victories over Bosnia-Hercegovina.

Similarly to France, Portugal are a side packed with talent but led by a much-criticised coach in the shape of former Manchester United assistant manager Carlos Queiroz. However, the near disastrous qualification campaign should not fool opponents into underestimating the Portuguese. Ronaldo is clearly their main threat but Chelsea's Deco and Atletico Madrid's Simao provide able support and Deco's club team-mate Ricardo Carvalho marshals the defence well.