Ronaldo chases records as Colombia meet Portugal

Colombia face Portugal in a match to decide the Group K winner at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. Both teams have largely secured a place in the next round, promising a competitive contest in Florida.

The advantage lies with Colombia. Having beaten Uzbekistan and DR Congo in succession to climb to the summit, Néstor Lorenzo's side need only a draw to hold first place and line up a meeting with one of the best third-placed teams in the last 32.

Portugal, meanwhile, cannot afford complacency in their pursuit of top spot, with the opening 0-0 draw against DR Congo still lingering. Roberto Martínez's team responded emphatically with a 5-0 win over Uzbekistan, a game dominated by Cristiano Ronaldo. Even so, victory on Saturday is essential to finish top of the group.

The Ronaldo factor is the biggest threat to Colombia. The 41-year-old's brace against Uzbekistan made him the first player to score at six different World Cups, and he overtook Eusébio with 10 goals to become Portugal's all-time top scorer at the tournament. An in-form Ronaldo could be a nightmare for Colombia's defense.

Both teams have been consistent of late. Colombia have lost just twice in their last 13 matches, those defeats coming against France and Croatia. Known for their well-organized defense and quality forward line, Colombia lost their last two against European opposition (March friendlies with France and Croatia) but had previously beaten Romania, Spain and Germany. Portugal have lost just twice in their last 22 games, overcoming the likes of Spain, Germany and Croatia in that run. Sports Illustrated's prediction leans on Portugal's class: 1-2.

Colombia are not expected to change the side that won their last two matches. Luis Suárez, who scored 38 goals for Sporting CP, will chase a first World Cup goal if he overcomes his injury, with Luis Díaz and captain James Rodríguez alongside him. Daniel Muñoz, who scored the winner against DR Congo, will also support the attack.

Portugal are likewise expected to keep the team that dismantled Uzbekistan. Rúben Dias and João Félix should retain their spots; Bruno Fernandes will pull the strings as the No. 10, while Nuno Mendes, who scored from left back, will look to maintain his form. The only injury doubt is center back Tomás Araújo, who started the opener.

Predicted lineups:
Colombia (4-3-3): Vargas; Muñoz, Sánchez, Lucumí, Mojica; Puerta, Lerma, Arias; Rodríguez, Suárez, Díaz.
Portugal (4-2-3-1): Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Veiga, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha; Neto, Fernandes, Félix; Ronaldo.

Image: Sports Illustrated