Ronaldo scores as Portugal beat Poland 3-1 in Nations League clash

Cristiano Ronaldo netted his 133rd international goal on Saturday evening, playing a pivotal role in Portugal’s 3-1 triumph over Poland at the PGE Narodowy in their UEFA Nations League clash. 

The victory keeps Roberto Martinez’s team firmly at the top of Group A, having claimed nine points from their first three matches. Poland, in contrast, remain in third place, three points adrift of second-placed Croatia.

The game kicked off with both sides pushing for an early advantage. Cristiano Ronaldo, keen to make his mark, had the first clear-cut opportunity after 10 minutes, latching onto a loose ball in the six-yard box, only to strike the crossbar from close range.

Despite Poland’s early dominance in possession, they struggled to create significant chances, allowing Portugal to punish them midway through the first half.

Bruno Fernandes’ clever play set up Bernardo Silva, who smashed a sweet volley into the net, breaking the deadlock. Just before halftime, Ronaldo doubled the lead with a simple finish after Rafael Leao’s impressive solo run ended with a shot ricocheting off the post into the captain’s path.

Poland tried to claw back in the second half but found themselves repeatedly exposed to Portugal’s counter-attacks.

Ronaldo, opting for teamwork, set up Bruno Fernandes for what should have been an easy third goal, but the midfielder shockingly missed the target.

This allowed Poland a glimmer of hope as Piotr Zielinski calmly slotted home with 15 minutes remaining.

However, Portugal sealed the victory late on when Jan Bednarek accidentally turned Nuno Mendes’ cross into his own net, dashing Poland’s comeback hopes.

With this win, Portugal solidifies its top spot, while Poland faces back-to-back defeats following their initial win against Scotland.