Cristiano Ronaldo reached an incredible milestone by scoring his 900th career goal, aiding Portugal in securing a 2-1 triumph over Croatia in their opening Nations League match on Thursday. Diogo Dalot was the first to find the back of the net for Portugal, initiating the scoring in the seventh minute after receiving a skillful chipped pass from Bruno Fernandes. Dalot skillfully maneuvered past Borna Sosa and sent the ball through the goalkeeper’s legs.
Despite not scoring in Portugal’s five Euro 2024 matches, the unmarked 39-year-old Ronaldo capitalized on a flawless cross from Nuno Mendes, tapping the ball in from close range to extend Portugal’s lead in the 34th minute. Croatia managed to reduce the deficit four minutes before halftime when Dalot inadvertently deflected a sliding attempt from Sosa into his own net. The second half saw no additional goals, ensuring Portugal a victorious start to their campaign.
In another League A Group 1 encounter on Thursday, Poland emerged victorious over Scotland with a 3-2 win. Upcoming matches will see Portugal hosting Scotland and Croatia welcoming Poland on Sunday.