Draw will do, but loss could tilt power balance

Portugal and Mexico would be satisfied with a dull draw in their final Group D clash on Wednesday. Leaders Portugal, on six points, are already guaranteed a place in the last 16 and another point from the game in Gelsenkirchen will ensure top spot.

Portugal and Mexico would be satisfied with a dull draw in their final Group D clash on Wednesday. Leaders Portugal, on six points, are already guaranteed a place in the last 16 and another point from the game in Gelsenkirchen will ensure top spot. Mexico have four points and another point will also send them through.

With the top two next facing Argentina or Netherlands, who meet in their Group C decider later on Wednesday, there is no huge advantage in topping the group. Argentina’s 6-0 demolition of Serbia & Montenegro makes them slightly less tempting second-round opposition than the Dutch.

Portugal want to avoid defeat to continue their momentum and will fancy their chances more against Netherlands, the team they beat 2-1 in the Euro 2004 semi-finals.

The Portugese have made the second round for the first time since 1966 when they went on to lose to eventual winners England in the semi-finals. “We haven’t reached the last 16 in 40 years. We are on the right path,” said midfielder Deco.

Deco, fellow midfielder Costinha and striker Pauleta are one yellow card away from a suspension that would rule them out of the second round. Coach Luiz Felipe Scolari could rest the trio to ensure they start the knockout phase with a clean slate.

Portugal have looked neat and composed without having to stretch themselves and will find Mexico a stern test. The perennial qualifiers are flattered by their FIFA ranking of fourth, three places above Portugal and five above Argentina, although they will expect to progress.

Mexico were short of inspiration when they failed to break down Angola in a goalless draw but coach Ricardo La Volpe pronounced himself unconcerned. “I would be worried if I had seen the team playing badly,” he said, hinting he would keep faith with the players who failed to penetrate the African side having beaten Iran 3-1 in their opener. Striker Jared Borgetti remains unavailable with a hamstring problem.

Story continues below this ad

Match officials: Referee: Lubos Michel (Slovakia); Assistant referees: Roman Slysko (Slovakia) & Martin Balko (Slovakia) Mitch Phillips