Portugal secured a spot in the Nations League quarter-finals following a 5-1 victory over Poland on Friday. Cristiano Ronaldo was instrumental in the win, contributing two goals, including a penalty and an impressive overhead kick.
Rafael Leao opened the scoring just shy of the hour mark with a well-placed header, followed by Cristiano Ronaldo, who extended the advantage in the 72nd minute, converting a penalty with a composed shot straight down the centre of the goal.
In a stunning display, the hosts netted three goals within a mere eight minutes, with contributions from Bruno Fernandes, Pedro Neto, and a clever strike by Ronaldo. Poland secured a consolation goal through Dominik Marczuk in the 88th minute.
The initial half proved challenging for our objectives, as we lost our focus and succumbed to frustration. “However, the second half was the most impressive performance I have witnessed,” stated Portugal coach Roberto Martinez.
“The mentality has shifted, leading to a rise in intensity and a greater emphasis on mutual support.” Poland should have been allowed to showcase their skills on the pitch.
Undefeated Portugal leads the group with 13 points, maintaining a six-point advantage over Croatia. The latter suffered a 1-0 defeat against Scotland, who, despite remaining at the bottom, are now tied on four points with third-placed Poland.
On the final matchday this Monday, Poland will host Scotland while Portugal makes their way to Croatia.
Having ended Poland’s two-year unbeaten streak at home with a 3-1 victory in the previous encounter in Warsaw last month, Portugal faced challenges controlling the visitors during the first half.
Poland faced a significant challenge without their all-time top scorer, Robert Lewandowski, who is currently out due to a back injury. Despite this setback, the team swiftly generated offensive threats, registering three attempts on target before halftime, while the hosts failed to produce any.
Bartosz Bereszynski came within inches of breaking the deadlock in the 12th minute, but Portugal’s custodian, Diogo Costa, was perfectly positioned to intercept his header. Moments later, Costa had to extend himself to thwart a fierce shot from Krzysztof Zalewski taken from the edge of the box.
Just before halftime, Leao and Ronaldo missed significant opportunities, sending their shots over the bar. However, the dynamics shifted in favour of Portugal following the restart.
The hosts, displaying evident enthusiasm, effectively controlled possession. Leao regained the ball within their penalty area and swiftly advanced down the pitch, locating Nuno Mendes on the left side. Mendes then delivered an impeccable lofted pass to set up the forward.
Portugal received a penalty following a handball incident, which Ronaldo skilfully converted. The team maintained its momentum, with Fernandes adding to the scoreline from long range, as his shot ricocheted in off the inside of the crossbar to make it 3-0.
Neto found the back of the net once more in the 83rd minute, slotting the ball inside the near post. Just minutes later, in the 87th minute, Ronaldo showcased his skill with an acrobatic finish, marking his 135th goal for the national team.
Poland, in distress, managed to net a late goal thanks to halftime substitute Marczuk, marking his inaugural strike on the international stage.
Portugal, the 2019 champions, experienced a setback in their recent match. They settled for a goalless draw against Scotland on October 15, marking their first points dropped in the current campaign. Despite this, they have achieved a commendable fourth consecutive top-two finish in the competition.
