MANAUS, Brazil (AP) — Cristiano Ronaldo will start for Portugal against the United States on Sunday in a crucial Group G match at the World Cup.
Ronaldo, who has been hampered by a left knee injury, has been training regularly with the team but wearing some wrapping just below his knee.
Portugal will be without usual starters Fabio Coentrao and Hugo Almeida, who are both injured and out of the World Cup. Pepe is suspended.
The United States will play Graham Zusi in a five-man midfield with Jozy Altidore out injured. Clint Dempsey will be the lone striker.
The U.S. would advance to the second round with a victory.
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United States: Tim Howard; Fabian Johnson, Geoff Cameron, Matt Besler, DaMarcus Beasley; Kyle Beckerman, Jermaine Jones, Alejandro Bedoya, Michael Bradley, Graham Zusi; Clint Dempsey.
Portugal: Beto; Andre Almeida, Ricardo Costa, Bruno Alves, Joao Pereira; Miguel Veloso, Joao Moutinho, Raul Meireles, Nani, Cristiano Ronaldo; Helder Postiga.