The Portuguese take on European champions Spain on Tuesday in Cape Town after finishing second in their group behind Brazil.

Yesterday's goalless draw against the South Americans marked the 19th consecutive game Portugal have gone undefeated under Queiroz.

The former Real Madrid coach and Manchester United assistant has equalled the record set by his predecessor, Luiz Felipe Scolari, between 2005 and 2006.

"Statistics don't mean very much," said Queiroz.

"They might build up our confidence, but we cannot go to the round of 16 just with reputation and statistics. Our players have to prove their worth on the pitch."

Portugal have also kept a clean sheet in 22 of their last 26 matches.

"This shows that we are playing good defence," said Queiroz.

"But we have to keep our feet on the ground because now the knock-out round begins and any mistakes can send you home."

Portugal are no strangers to their Iberian rivals, a side they eliminated in the knock-out round of Euro 2004 with a 1-0 victory.

The Spaniards won the European title, however, two years ago in Austria and travelled to South Africa as one of the favourites to win the World Cup.

"I have not analysed any other groups up to now," admitted Queiroz.

"I have just focused on my group, which was enough work.

"But now we will prepare to be at our best in our next match.

"The important thing is that we play how we know."

Brazil, who finished top of Group G after claiming seven points from a possible nine, take on Chile on Monday in Johannesburg.

The Canarinha will be bolstered by the return of Kaka from suspension, while both Robinho and Elano are likely to come back from injury after missing the clash against Portugal.

"I think and hope that Elano will play in the next game," said Brazil coach Dunga.

"Robinho had a slight injury and that is why Nilmar played in his place against Portugal but he will return to play in our next match."

Despite avoiding defeat in the group stages, Dunga expects more from his players as the tournament progresses.

"I think Brazil has performed as expected so far," he said.

"We have obtained the results that we had to.

"But we have to evolve and try to improve as much as possible because the degree of difficulty tends to increase from now on."

Brazil did very little entertaining on Friday against Portugal with the two sides failing to provide the expected flowing football.

Dunga believes the five-time world champions will show more flair in their remaining games.

"Football is the people's joy," he said. "The World Cup is an event that congregates many countries.

"It is a sheer joy and whenever it is possible, we are going to ensure that Brazil is able to provide this joy."