Head coach of Portugal Carlos Queiroz announced the 24-man list previous to the world Cup in South Africa, yes 24, meaning only one unfortunate player will be left behind.

The biggest surprise is the absence of Sporting midfielder João Moutinho, a regular in the squad. Also players like Hilario and Quim, both veteran goalkeepers didn't make the cut.

Another surprise is the inclusion of Ze Castro, who admitted this citation called him by surprise, as he was not as regular during the qualifiers.

Despite no playing a game since Decemeber, Pepe was included in the list, and will most likely be part of the starting XI in the world cup.

It is not necessary to mention the fact that all eyes will be set on CR9; the Real Madrid striker needs to have a good world cup if he wants to beat Barcelona striker Lionel Messi in the race for the FIFA world player of the year. Also winning a World Cup if one of the few titles that Ronaldo has not yet achieved, just like Lio.

Goalkeepers:
Eduardo (Sporting de Braga)
Daniel Fernandes (Iraklis)
Beto (Oporto)

Defenders:
Bruno Alves (Oporto)
Rolando (Oporto)
Miguel (Valencia)
Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea)
Paulo Ferreira (Chelsea)
Duda (Málaga)
Ricardo Costa (Lille)
Zé Castro (Deportivo de La Coruña)

Mifielders:
Deco (Chelsea)
Pedro Mendes (Sporting)
Miguel Veloso (Sporting)
Pepe (Real Madrid)
Raúl Meireles (Oporto)
Fábio Coentrão (Benfica)
Simão Sabrosa (Atlético de Madrid)
Tiago (Atlético de Madrid)

Forwards:
Danny (Zenit)
Hugo Almeida (Werder Bremen)
Nani (Manchester United)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)
Liedson (Sporting)

Portugal releases 24-man list