Figo expects tough match against IRI

IRIB - Portugal captain Luis Figo anticipates a "tough match" against group D opponents Iran in Frankfurt on Saturday.

"I know little about the (Iranian) team but we expect a tough match, " Figo said from the team headquarters in Frankfurt.

Figo's sentiments were echoed by his team-mate Costinha who warned against underestimating the triple Asian Cup winners.

"The (Iranian) squad is strong because many players are playing in the (German) Bundesliga," said Portugal defender Costinha, pointing to Ali Karimi, Mehdi Mahdavikia, Vahid Hashemian and Fereydoun Zandi.

In other related news, Portuguese star midfielder Cristiano Ronaldo who is nursing a slight muscle injury, remains listed as doubtful for the crucial group D showdown.

Meanwhile Portuguese playmaker Deco is expected to sit on the bench for Saturday's game.