Ronaldo and Messi clash as Portugal duel with Argentina

Portugal skipper Cristiano Ronaldo (3/1 with Coral to steer his side to a memorable victory) will be hoping to best Ballon d’Or rival Lionel Messi and run riot against Argentina on his former stomping ground.

Another triumphant return to Old Trafford, this time for country instead of club, could well be on the cards for the Real Madrid superstar.

Rampant Ronaldo netted the last time these two teams faced each other back in 2011, although his equaliser was cancelled out by mischievous Messi’s 90th minute penalty.

The Navigators captain is 4/1 to score first after grabbing the winning goals for Portugal in his last two games, and will have understandably, but perhaps unfairly, have much expectation surrounding him ahead of this encounter.

Ronaldo is also available at a fantastic 5/1 to bag a brace or better, but his nation will need others to step up if they are to leave Manchester with all the spoils.

Sporting Lisbon loanee Nani (10/3 to be on target anytime) has been in fine form since returning to his former club, so the Navigators faithful will be hoping an impromptu return home to Old Trafford does not stunt his confidence.

The 27-year-old has been lighting up Lisbon, with five goals and four assists across all competitions so far, sparking talk of being recalled to his parent club.

High-flying Nani needs to focus on his international performances, though, and provide much-needed support for star man Ronaldo.

A promising midfield featuring Monaco maestro Joao Moutinho and Sporting’s resilient William Carvalho, backed by the recent returns of former Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho and midfielder Tiago, should provide a stern test for Argentina’s attack.