Portugal has participated in the FIFA World Cup thrice in 1966, 1986 and 2002. In 1966 they were honored with 3rd place. In Germany they will be playing in Group D with Mexico, Iran and Angola.

In their qualifying campaign, the team had nine wins and three draws from their 12 games. Portugal scored more goals than any other team in Europe. Striker Pauleta secured the top position in the continental scorer's chart because of the 11 goals he scored.

Luis Figo was on international exile after he withdrew from international football in July 2004 has returned back and has taken over as captain. Other key players to watch are Cristiano Ronaldo, Midfielder Deco and defender Ricardo Carvalho.