Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 133rd international goal as Portugal secured a 3-1 victory over Poland in their UEFA Nations League match on Saturday evening. The win solidifies Portugal’s position atop Group 1 of League A with nine points from three matches.
Roberto Martinez’s side opened the scoring in the 26th minute when Bernardo Silva volleyed home a clever header from Bruno Fernandes. Ronaldo doubled the lead in the 37th minute, tapping in after Rafael Leao’s powerful run and shot hit the post.
Poland fought back in the second half, with Piotr Zielinski scoring in the 78th minute to give the hosts hope. However, an own goal by Jan Bednarek in the 88th minute sealed Portugal’s victory.
Ronaldo, at 39, continues to be a formidable presence for the national team. Despite criticism of his all-round contribution, he impressed with an 88% pass completion rate and three shots on goal.
The match statistics heavily favored Portugal, who dominated possession (63%) and outshot Poland 19-12, with seven on target to Poland’s four.
This result leaves Poland in third place in the group, three points behind second-placed Croatia. Portugal will aim to maintain their perfect record when they face Scotland on Tuesday, while Poland looks to bounce back against Croatia.
The Nations League campaign continues to shape up as an exciting contest, with Portugal emerging as early favorites in their group under Martinez’s guidance.
