Ronaldo scores as Portugal keep perfect Euro qualifying record

Ronaldo scores as Portugal keep perfect Euro qualifying record Liechtenstein national football team

Cristiano Ronaldo found the back of the net to help Portugal beat Liechtenstein 2-0 in Group J clash on Thursday as the 38-year-old tied Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku as the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign’s top scorer.

With their spot for the finals already secured, Portugal are on top of their group on 27 points, eight ahead of second-placed Slovakia. Liechtenstein are bottom with no points after nine games.

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez decided not to rest any of his usual starters, but his side struggled against their lowly rivals and were unable to break the deadlock in the first half.

But in the first minute of the second half, Diogo Jota’s through ball found Ronaldo, who cut inside between two defenders and unleashed an unstoppable left-footed shot that skimmed the crossbar before going in.

Ronaldo extended his lead as the all-time top scorer in international soccer by moving up to 128 goals in 204 matches.

Joao Cancelo extended their lead in the 56th minute, taking advantage of a blunder by goalkeeper Benjamin Buechel, who was out of position, to strike into the empty net.

In a dazzling display of skill and determination, Cristiano Ronaldo led Portugal to another victory, securing their flawless record in Euro qualifying. The prolific forward found the back of the net, adding to his impressive goal tally and showcasing why he is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time. Portugal remains unbeaten, underscoring their dominance in the European qualifiers as they march confidently towards the upcoming Euro tournament. Ronaldo’s scoring prowess continues to be a driving force for his team, instilling confidence and excitement among fans as Portugal looks poised for success on the grand stage.