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Ronaldo: I still believe I can help Portugal
Ronaldo: “I still believe I can help Portugal”
Match Overview
Portugal kicked off their UEFA Nations League Group A1 campaign with consecutive 2-1 victories over Croatia and Scotland at the Estádio da Luz. Cristiano Ronaldo proved decisive in both fixtures, scoring the winning goals to secure a maximum six points for Roberto Martínez’s side. The Seleção dominated play across both matches, averaging 58% possession and registering a total of 41 shots.
Key Stats & Facts
- Milestone Goal: Ronaldo scored his historic 900th career goal against Croatia, followed by his 901st against Scotland.
- Portugal 2-1 Croatia: Shots: 15-13; Shots on Target: 6-4; Possession: 50%-50%; Corners: 4-6.
- Portugal 2-1 Scotland: Shots: 26-4; Shots on Target: 7-2; Possession: 66%-34%; Corners: 13-1.
- Attacking Output: Bruno Fernandes celebrated his 30th birthday and 73rd cap with a crucial equalising goal against Scotland from 5 attempts on target.
- Discipline: Portugal picked up four yellow cards across the double-header (two in each match) while committing a total of 21 fouls.
Player Spotlight
At 39 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo silenced critics following a barren Euro 2024 campaign by reaffirming his value to the national team. Coming off the bench at half-time against Scotland, Ronaldo hit the post twice before netting an 88th-minute winner from close range. The veteran forward has now scored 132 goals in 214 appearances for Portugal, extending his record as the all-time leading scorer in men’s international football.
Standings Impact
The back-to-back victories place Portugal firmly at the top of League A Group 1 with six points. Croatia and Poland sit in second and third place respectively with three points each, while Scotland remain bottom with zero points. Portugal are now in a prime position to secure a top-two finish and advance to the quarter-finals ahead of their October away fixtures against Poland and Scotland.