Cristiano Ronaldo’s late goal propelled Portugal to a 2-1 victory over Scotland in Lisbon, maintaining Roberto Martínez’s perfect start in the UEFA Nations League (UNL) and putting Portugal at the top of Group 1 in League A.
Ronaldo, introduced at the start of the second half, once again proved decisive as he scored the winning goal in the 88th minute, bringing his career tally to 901 goals. The Portugal captain’s relentless pursuit of a 1000th career goal continued as he helped his nation overcome a spirited Scottish side.
Scotland stunned the home crowd early on when Scott McTominay headed in Kenny McLean’s cross in the 7th minute, giving the visitors an unexpected lead. Portugal, however, responded with urgency, led by the ever-dangerous Rafael Leão, who was a constant menace down the flanks. Despite multiple chances, Portugal struggled to find the net in the first half as Scotland’s goalkeeper Angus Gunn kept the hosts at bay.
The second half saw Martínez make crucial changes, including bringing on Ronaldo, who immediately added a spark to Portugal’s attack. The equalizer came shortly after when Leão found birthday boy Bruno Fernandes on the edge of the box, who drilled a first-time shot into the bottom corner to level the score.
Portugal continued to press for the winner, with Ronaldo coming agonizingly close twice, only to be denied by the woodwork. But the Portugal talisman wasn’t to be denied for long. In the 88th minute, Nuno Mendes delivered a perfect cross that Ronaldo instinctively prodded home, sending the home fans into raptures and securing a crucial victory for Portugal.
The late strike not only extended Portugal’s winning run in the Nations League but also marked another historic moment in Ronaldo’s illustrious career. As Portugal celebrated, Scotland were left to rue yet another late defeat, with manager Steve Clarke facing questions on how to tighten his team’s resolve in the dying moments of games.
