Portugal, Mexico, Russia tussle for semis berths

Sochi, June 23 

Portugal are set to rest Cristiano Ronaldo for tomorrow's clash against New Zealand as the Euro 2016 winners look to confirm their passage into next week's Confederations Cup semifinals.

Coach Ferdinand Santos is expected to rest some stars, including captain Ronaldo, against the Kiwis. AC Milan's new signing Andre Silva should lead Portugal's attack in the David vs Goliath clash in St Petersburg.

Things remain tight in Group A before Saturday's final round. Mexico, top of Group A equal with Portugal on four points by virtue of having scored one more goal, face Russia, who are just a point behind in third.

Only fourth-placed New Zealand have no chance after losing their two games so far. It promises to be a battle royal in Kazan where Mexico need just a point to make the semis, while Russia need to win or their prospects hinge on Portugal losing. — AFP