Portugal boss Fernando Santos has confirmed that he will make changes to his starting side for Friday's World Cup contest with South Korea.

The European nation, who have already qualified for the round of 16, would top Group H with a draw or a victory in this match, while South Korea need to triumph to stand a chance of advancing to the next stage.

Nuno Mendes picked up a muscular injury during the first half of his side's 2-0 win over Uruguay last time out and is out of the tournament, which will lead to Raphael Guerreiro coming into the starting XI for this contest.

Danilo remains unavailable for selection due to fractured ribs, while Otavio is a huge doubt with the problem that forced him to miss Portugal's second game of the competition last time out.

Cristiano Ronaldo has also emerged as a doubt after missing training on Wednesday.

Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes are again likely to be starters in the midfield area, while Ronaldo, if fit, could feature alongside Goncalo Ramos in attack.

Rafael Leao has impressed during his two appearances off the bench at the tournament, but the AC Milan attacker is again expected to start on the bench here.

Pepe came in for the injured Danilo against Uruguay, and the experienced centre-back, who has struggled with a knee problem at Porto this season, is set to retain his spot alongside Ruben Dias on Friday, but Diogo Dalot and Joao Palhinha could both come into the XI.

Portugal possible starting lineup: Costa; Dalot, Pepe, Dias, Guerreiro; Bernardo, Neves, Palhinha; Fernandes; Ronaldo, Ramos

> Click here to see how South Korea could line up in this match

Written by
Matt Law