Cristiano Ronaldo seals Portugal’s comeback win over Scotland 🏆
Cristiano Ronaldo has done it again! Portugal came from behind to beat Scotland 2-1 in the UEFA Nations League, the legendary 39-year-old netting the decisive goal with two minutes left. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Scott McTominay stunned the crowd with a well-placed header in the eighth minute and Scotland got off to a dreamy start. But Portugal fought back and Ronaldo’s magic showed.
After being substituted at half-time, Ronaldo immediately made his presence felt. Bruno Fernandes levelled the score at 1-1 in the 54th minute with a powerful strike that Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn could not stop. Portugal dominated possession but struggled to break through again until Nuno Mendes finished close range for Ronaldo to break Scotland’s heart.
Scotland had chances, including two penalty claims, but it wasn’t enough. Gunn kept Scotland in the game with a superb save, denying Joao Felix and watching helplessly as Ronaldo hit the post twice. But when the chance came, Ronaldo didn’t miss. The win took Portugal to the top of Group 1, while Scotland are bottom without a point after back-to-back defeats.
Play of the Match – Nuno Mendes
Nuno Mendes was solid in defence and came on at the most crucial moments to provide the precise assist for Ronaldo’s winning goal. His vision and timing were impeccable.
Key Highlights
- 7′ Goal! Scotland 1-0: McTominay leapt high and headed McLean’s cross into the net.
- 54′ Goal! Portugal 1-1: Fernandes levelled the score for the home side with a low drive, which Gunn attempted to handle but failed to keep out.
- 82′ Ronaldo hits the post twice: Following two heroic saves from Gunn, Ronaldo hit the post twice in quick succession.
- 88′ Goal! Portugal 2-1: Mendes crosses the ball and Ronaldo slots it home from close range.
Player Ratings
- Portugal: Costa 7, Semedo 6, Dias 7, Silva 7, Mendes 8, Fernandez 7, Palhinha 6, B. Silva 7, Neto 6, Jota 6, Leao 7
- The Granite City: Gunn 8, Ralston 7, Hanley 6, McKenna 6, Robertson 7, Gilmour 7, McLean 7, Christie 7, McTominay 7, McGinn 7, Dykes 6
