Its Big Phil vs super Sven. It’s the epic clash. The man who has masterminded England’s exit from the last two major tournaments; England’s arch nemesis; Luis Felipe Scolari meets them again as he aims to complete a “knockout England” hat-trick. In his way stands the under-fire Sven Goran Eriksson and a more than able English squad. Its going to be a classic——no two ways about it.
England News: The “Three Lions” have been criticized by Sepp Blatter for not playing an attractive brand of football. But their fans don’t care. They are completely behind the squad as England looks for its first World Cup trophy win since 1966. The line-up remains a major point of contention for the Englishmen. With the one striker experiment not really working,Peter Crouch may regain his place upfront.If he however does not play and England play Rooney as the lone player upfront,Michael Carrick will most probably retain his holding midfield spot . Gary Neville returns to his customary position at right-back after missing out on a few games due to injury.Frank Lampard will be desperate to get on the scoresheet,now that all of his midfield compatriots,Steven Gerrard ,David Beckham and Joe Cole have a goal each to their name.
Injuries/Suspensions: As said before Gary Neville has recovered and will play at right-back. Carragher, Robinson and Owen Hargreaves are on a yellow.
The Talisman: Wayne Rooney. He can run , dribble, turn , kick, shoot…………..and can score too!He hasn’t scored yet in this tournament but there is no doubting his credentials and the Portuguese defence will be wary of him.
Portugal defeated Holland 1-0 in their second round game thanks to a Maniche goal.The game was an illtempered game with cards flying all over the place. With so many yellow cards shown to players, it would be interesting so see their temper going into this game.I would also like to see how they handle pacy Tottenham starlet Lennon.
Team News: Deco and Costinha are suspended. Ronaldo may be fit. Figo has been cleared to play despite the headbutt. Miguel and Ricardo Carvalho have been outstanding in the tournament so far and the onus will be on them to keep the Englishmen at bay.
On a yellow: Maniche,Luis Figo, Nuno Valente, Petit, Ricardo.
I see: Revenge on the cards. Fired-up England to sneak past a Portugal without Deco. It will be a very open game. A early goal will do a lot of good.Portugal however have Luis Felipe Scolari on their side. Even without Deco and Costinha ,the Portuguese have enough quality to beat England.
I see England winning this. It will be tight and even a scrappy 1-0 will do for England.

