Portugal kicked off their Nations League campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Croatia on Thursday, thanks in part to a landmark achievement by Cristiano Ronaldo.
Diogo Dalot put Portugal ahead early in the seventh minute, capitalizing on a clever chipped pass from Bruno Fernandes. The defender expertly maneuvered past Borna Sosa before firing a shot through the legs of the Croatian goalkeeper.
Ronaldo, who had been searching for his scoring touch after a goalless Euro 2024 campaign, reached the incredible milestone of 900 career goals in the 34th minute. He expertly finished a perfect cross from Nuno Mendes, tapping the ball into the back of the net from close range to double Portugal’s lead.
Croatia pulled a goal back just before halftime when Dalot unfortunately deflected a sliding effort from Sosa into his own net. However, a scoreless second half ensured Portugal claimed the opening victory.
In the other League A Group 1 match on Thursday, Poland defeated Scotland 3-2. Portugal will next face Scotland on Sunday, while Croatia will host Poland.
