体坛英语新闻：Portugal into World Cup qualifying play-off

LISBON, Oct. 14 (Xinhua) -- Portugal booked a place in the play-offs of the World Cup qualifying after defeating Malta 4-0 on Wednesday.

    Portugal finished second in the Group One with 19 points behind leaders Denmark who have earned direct qualification.

    Top finishers in each of the nine groups in the European zone will directly enter the 2010 soccer gala in South Africa while thebest eight runners-up go into the playoffs to vie for another four berths.

Portugal's Simao Sabrosa (L) celebrates his goal against Malta with teammate Miguel Veloso during their World Cup 2010 qualifying soccer match at Afonso Henriques stadium in Guimaraes October 14, 2009

    The goals against Malta were scored by Nani at the 13 minute, Simao Sabrosa at 45th, Miguel Veloso at 52, and Edinho at 90.

    Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo missed this match due to an injury in his right ankle. He has started his recovering in Madrid.

Portugal's Nani celebrates his goal against Malta during their 2010 World Cup qualifying soccer match at Afonso Henriques stadium in Guimaraes October 14, 2009.

"I wished with all my heart to fight for Portugal with you, but as you know, an inopportune injury impedes me," Ronaldo told his Portuguese fellow players.

    Portugal captain Ronaldo, told his fellows that "your great challenge tonight is to make a great match to be closer to the World Cup of South Africa."

    Portugal could face Ukraine, Ireland, Slovenia or Bosnia-Herzegovina.