It’s easy to get carried away with seven-goal thrashings. Although Portugal were undeniably impressive in the way they dispatched North Korea, it must be taken into account that the outsiders threw in the towel after the second goal went in.

The Portuguese and their highest profile player Cristiano Ronaldo exploited the space left behind extremely well. But the real test for them is how they respond to the task of breaking down opposition who won’t cave in so easily.

We may not get a true picture when they face Brazil because both sides are effectively through to the next stage of the World Cup. But Portugal, in qualifying and in their opening game against Ivory Coast, were often tepid and unimaginative. Even the first 45 minutes against the North Koreans was a struggle.

However, they’re getting the results and unlike many of the more fancied European nations, their place in the last 16, despite being in a more difficult group, is virtually assured.