Ronaldo demolishes Liechtenstein in record-breaking fashion
Portugal kicked off their quest for an eighth consecutive UEFA European Championship appearance in style with a dominant 4-0 triumph over Liechtenstein, highlighted by Cristiano Ronaldo’s record-setting 197th international cap and two goals to seal the victory.
Roberto Martinez led the Seleção in his first game since becoming the manager, following their World Cup quarter-final exit, and despite being ranked 191 places ahead of Liechtenstein, Portugal dominated from the outset, with João Cancelo securing an early lead in the 8th minute through a deflected first-time shot.
Despite dominating possession, Portugal’s hopes of achieving a record-breaking win against Liechtenstein waned due to poor finishing, with both João Félix and Cristiano Ronaldo missing clear-cut opportunities; Liechtenstein, buoyed by their opponents’ lack of precision in front of goal, put in a spirited defensive performance to ensure they went into half-time only one goal behind.
Determined to secure a victory, Portugal started the second half with a bang, as Bernardo Silva scored within 70 seconds of the restart, and Cancelo earned a penalty shortly after, which Cristiano Ronaldo converted with ease to mark his record-breaking 197th cap with a goal, much to the delight of manager Roberto MartÃnez.
Roberto MartÃnez’s decision to include Cristiano Ronaldo in the squad despite his move to Al-Nassr was vindicated, as he scored a stunning free-kick for the 60th goal of his illustrious career, although he was unable to complete a hat-trick, and Portugal couldn’t extend their lead beyond a comfortable 4-0 scoreline, while Liechtenstein suffered their 13th consecutive defeat and will face Iceland in their next match.
