Brad expecting 'difficult game for both sides'

Brad Friedel believes his native USA will face a Portugal side with a point to prove at the World Cup tonight.

Our popular goalkeeper, currently out in Brazil covering the tournament for a national broadcaster, played for the States at the 1998 and 2002 tournament finals and was naturally delighted to see Jurgen Klinsmann’s side emerge with a 2-1 win from their Group G opener against Ghana on Monday.

That match took place a matter of hours after Germany inflicted a 4-0 defeat on Portugal – a result that left Brad wondering how the latter side will react when they meet the USA in Manaus tonight, kick-off 11pm.

“It will be a difficult game against Portugal, but it could be a very difficult one for Portugal as well,” the 43-year-old said.

“I know the media haven’t been very favourable after their last result.

“The only negatives for the US coming out of the Ghana game were the injuries to Matt Besler and Jozy Altidore, although in that second half we had our backs up against the wall at times.

“I think it’s going to be a difficult game for both sides this weekend.”