28 May, by Tom Kundert

Santos gets dream call-up into Portugal’s World Cup squad

Braga goalkeeper Paulo Santos is going to the World Cup

The 33-year-old has been drafted into the squad as the third goalkeeper to replace the unfortunate Bruno Vale.

Vale suffered an injury in Portugal’s under-21 European Championship defeat against Serbia & Montenegro on Thursday. Medical tests confirmed Vale’s worst fears: a fracture to his right foot.

The request to authorise a substitute has already been sent to FIFA, and Paulo Santos will link up with the rest of the squad in Evora immediately.

Excellent club form

Santos enjoyed an excellent season at Braga, helping the northerners to finish fourth in the championship.

His fine form earned him his Portugal debut in November last year, in the 1-1 draw against Northern Ireland in a friendly match.