Mourinho backing Portugal progression, but thinks Germany will top Group G

Jose Mourinho: Confident of Portugal’s progression

Jose Mourinho has backed his native Portugal to qualify from their World Cup group this summer – but believes they will do so behind Germany, as runners up.

Portugal qualified for the summer showpiece in Brazil via the play-offs as they triumphed over Sweden to take their place in Group G, where they will come up one of the tournament favourites in Germany, as well as Ghana and the United States in a difficult looking group.

They are currently sweating on the fitness of talisman Cristiano Ronaldo as he battles tendonitis in the knee, with fears that he will not be able to take his place in the opener against Germany on June 16th.

Mourinho does believe Germany will be too strong for his home nation regardless of Ronaldo’s appearance in the side and has backed Joachim Loew’s side to emerge victorious from the group, but believes Portugal will have enough in the tank to progress to the first knockout round, believing them to be too strong for Ghana and the USA.

Mourinho was apologetic as he told reporters, “I apologise deeply, but I opt for Germany as group winners and Portugal in second place.”