Cristiano Ronaldo Seals Portugal Comeback Over Scotland
Cristiano Ronaldo did it again! Portugal pulled off a 2-1 comeback win against Scotland in the UEFA Nations League, with the legendary 39-year-old scoring the decisive goal just two minutes from the end. It wasn’t all smooth sailing, though. Scott McTominay shocked the crowd early with a well-placed header in the 8th minute, giving Scotland a dream start. But Portugal fought back, and the magic of Ronaldo came through.
After being subbed in at halftime, Ronaldo immediately made his presence felt. Bruno Fernandes leveled the score at 1-1 with a powerful strike in the 54th minute, which Scottish goalkeeper Angus Gunn couldn’t quite keep out. Despite dominating possession, Portugal struggled to break through again until Nuno Mendes set up Ronaldo for a close-range finish that broke Scottish hearts.
Scotland had their chances, including two penalty claims that were waved away, but it wasn’t enough. Gunn kept them in the game with some brilliant saves, denying Joao Felix and watching helplessly as Ronaldo hit the post twice. But when the chance came, Ronaldo didn’t miss. This victory keeps Portugal at the top of Group 1, while Scotland, after back-to-back defeats, is at the bottom with no points.
Play of the Match – Nuno Mendes
Nuno Mendes was rock solid in defense and came through when it mattered most, providing a pinpoint assist for Ronaldo’s winning goal. His vision and timing were perfect.
Key Highlights
- 7’ GOAL! Scotland 1-0: McTominay rises high to head McLean’s cross into the net.
- 54’ GOAL! Portugal 1-1: Fernandes pulls the hosts level with a low drive that Gunn gets a hand to but can’t stop.
- 82’ Ronaldo hits the post twice: Gunn’s heroic double-save is followed by Ronaldo smashing the post twice in quick succession.
- 88’ GOAL! Portugal 2-1: Mendes crosses the ball in, and Ronaldo taps it home from close range.
Player Ratings
- Portugal: Costa 7, Semedo 6, Dias 7, Silva 7, Mendes 8, Fernandes 7, Palhinha 6, B. Silva 7, Neto 6, Jota 6, Leao 7
- Scotland: Gunn 8, Ralston 7, Hanley 6, McKenna 6, Robertson 7, Gilmour 7, McLean 7, Christie 7, McTominay 7, McGinn 7, Dykes 6
