Ronaldo expected to play for Portugal against US

Cristiano Ronaldo will play, and Portugal needs to win.

The world player of the year hasn’t been able to shake a lingering left knee injury since coming to Brazil, but he trained normally Saturday and is expected to start today when the Portuguese face the United States in a crucial Group G match at the World Cup.

“He trains everyday with all of us. So Cristiano is fit to play,” Portugal midfielder Raul Meireles said Saturday. “That’s all I can say.”

Ronaldo took the field with the rest of his teammates and did several running drills, not appearing to be affected by the injury. He did, however, again have some wrapping below his left knee.

Portugal lost its opening match to Germany 4-0, and another loss on today would mean elimination from the World Cup.