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Portugal squad to play Argentina

"There are no big surprises, we are looking for stability. We want to give an identity to the national side, and that comes from stability in our selections," Bento told reporters on Thursday.

Appointed in September after Carlos Queiroz was sacked for insulting anti-doping agents, Bento has revived Portugal's Euro 2012 qualifying hopes after a dismal start with wins over Denmark and Iceland.

The coach's single change in defence is the absence of Real Madrid centre back Pepe, who is recovering from a torn calf muscle, while Tiago is no longer available in midfield after retiring from international football last month.

"Quaresma is a talented player. The call-up is not a surprise," Bento said.

Captain Cristiano Ronaldo's form has improved for Portugal under Bento, but the coach said the friendly will not pit him in an individual duel against Argentina's Lionel Messi even though fans may see it as such.