Portugal look to play-offs with win over Malta

Portugal v Malta

Portugal can calm the frayed nerves of their long-suffering fans by beating lowly Malta on Wednesday to book a place in the World Cup play-offs.

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After impressing in recent tournaments, and with the world's most expensive player Cristiano Ronaldo on their side, Portugal started the campaign for South Africa 2010 as favourites to win Group One. But a 3-2 home defeat by Denmark, two scoreless draws against Sweden and inconsistent displays have deflated belief in Carlos Queiroz's side.

Queiroz was booed when his name was announced before the Hungary match on Saturday but Portugal won 3-0 and, with Sweden losing to leaders Denmark, are again favourites - this time to keep second place by beating Malta...[source]