Durban - Portugal have been dealt a severe blow after their star winger, Nani, has joined the causality list ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
The Manchester United winger injured his collarbone during a training session last week. Tests have been carried out on the popular footballer, who looked very promising during United's English Premier League campaign, last season.
He will join his United team-mate Rio Ferdinand and Germany captain Michael Ballack on the sidelines.
Nani joined the senior Portugal national team in September 2006. He played an important role in ensuring that his country qualified for this year's tournament.
Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz confirmed that Ruben Amorim of Benfica will replace the injured winger.
Portugal will need all the ammunition they can get because they find themselves in a tough group with five time winners Brazil, Ivory Coast and North Korea.
Meanwhile, Portugal secured a convincing win over Mozambique on Tuesday, beating the African country 3-nil in a friendly match.
Danny scored the opening goal while Hugo Almeida netted twice in the latter stages of the game.
