Bruno Fernandes earned Portugal a fifth consecutive triumph in Euro 2024 qualifying, his purpose securing a 1-0 win at Slovakia in Bratislava on Friday.
Roberto Martinez’s aspect has not conceded a purpose in Group J, scoring 15, and is 5 factors away from its opponent which is second after being crushed for the primary time.
With veteran defender Pepe, 40, injured, the Portugal coach chosen 19-year-old Benfica defender Antonio Silva alongside Ruben Dias on the centre of defence.
AS IT HAPPENED: Slovakia vs Portugal Highlights
Cristiano Ronaldo, making his 201st Portugal look on the age of 38, scored towards Slovakia again in 2005 in a World Cup qualifier, one among a report 850 profession targets, however couldn’t add to the tally on this event.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid ahead made his Portugal debut again in 2003 and has extra worldwide targets, with 123, and appearances than every other participant.
Ronaldo had his arms up in anguish after Fernandes shot as a substitute of passing after a Slovakia defensive mix-up, with Martin Dubravka saving the midfielder’s low effort.
It was one among few probabilities in a cagey first half, with Slovakia protecting issues tight, though the hosts may have gone forward when Lukas Haraslin brushed the skin of the close to publish with a fierce drive.
Moments later Fernandes despatched Portugal forward, drilling dwelling from a good angle into the far nook, his third purpose of the qualifying marketing campaign sending the guests in forward on the break.
Ronaldo miscued after an hour when he may need doubled Portugal’s lead after which slid in on Dubravka whereas attempting to show dwelling the unfastened ball to earn a yellow card.
The striker missed one other good probability when effectively positioned with quarter-hour remaining when Dubravka saved his close to publish effort comfortably, however Portugal held on for the win.
The Euro 2016 winner hosts Luxembourg on Monday in its subsequent qualifier, whereas Slovakia welcomes Liechtenstein.
Source: sportstar.thehindu.com