In their first game after Euro 2024, Portugal were back on top, beating Croatia in the opening round of Group A1 of the Nations League. A tough win that was marked by Cristiano Ronaldo’s 900th career goal, which received a standing ovation from a packed Estádio da Luz.
The disappointment at Euro 2024 has sparked a debate about Cristiano Ronaldo. No one questions the value of one of the greatest players of all time, but the true usefulness of the 39-year-old has been questioned. This game was just what the captain and the national team needed.
In a packed Estádio da Luz, against the opponent that raised the first doubts before the European Championship, Portugal got off to a flying start and scored in the 7th minute through Diogo Dalot. Playing in a hybrid position between defence and midfield, the Manchester United full-back broke the national team’s three-game goalless streak.
Then came the celebration of the 900th goal. Croatia felt the touch, Portugal took control of the game, Cristiano Ronaldo (34′) looked for the game and it arrived. Nuno Mendes crossed perfectly, the forward showed his class as a finisher and sent the ball into the back of the net. That’s 900 goals, celebrated with tears and a standing ovation at Luz. The captain’s rehabilitation was complete and the game became a celebration.
Only Diogo Dalot’s own goal (41′) – who responded poorly to Borna Sosa’s cross – spoiled the captain’s celebrations. In a phase of renewal, Croatia were a shadow of their former selves, lacking in energy and needing shots from outside the area from Modric and Kramaric to create any danger, but Diogo Costa showed class.
The second half ended up being another moment of experiments. Portugal played without wingers, managed the match, kept the ball in the freezer, tried to threaten with the entries of Bruno Fernandes, a shot by Nélson Semedo, Ronaldo tried to take a free kick to end the party, but the score did not change.
The 2-1 result led to an anxious final 10 minutes, with Matanovic causing a lot of trouble with his height in the area and Kovacic shooting into the side netting, but this was a night to celebrate. Final whistle, victory and another big ovation for Cristiano Ronaldo. There are reasons to smile and Portugal kick off Group A1 of the Nations League with a win.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
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