Portugal boosted by Ronaldo return

By Oliver Grassman

STOCKHOLM (Reuters) - Portugal, having slumped to a shock home defeat by Denmark without Cristiano Ronaldo last month, welcome the winger back for their World Cup Group One qualifier against Sweden on Saturday (7 p.m. British time).

Ronaldo coming up against Zlatan Ibrahimovic, a rival for the World Player of the Year award, is a potential feast in store for the fans in Stockholm as Portugal look to make up for the 3-2 upset in Lisbon.

The 2006 World Cup semi-finalists are fourth in the group with three points, a point behind leaders Albania, the Danes and Sweden after two matches.

"I know that from now on everything will be more complicated after the defeat against Denmark," said Ronaldo, who has recovered from ankle surgery.

"We cannot lose more qualifiers. I hope that things run better," added the winger, who will, however, lack the support of several regulars in the Portuguese team.

Midfielder Maniche and playmaker Deco have been ruled out through injuries, adding their names to a list that already included central defender Ricardo Carvalho and winger Simao Sabrosa.

INJURY NIGHTMARES

Sweden's situation is no better, though.