Without Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal’s national team passed their last World Cup test with ease. Coach Fernando Santos’ selection won 4-0 (2-0) against Nigeria, who did not qualify for the World Cup, in Lisbon on Thursday evening. The 68-year-old had already announced before the game that Ronaldo would not be part of the squad.
Midfielder Bruno Fernandes from Manchester United gave the hosts an early lead with a brace (9th minute/35th/penalty), Goncalo Ramos (82nd) and Joao Mario (84th) followed suit in the closing stages. Keeper Rui Patricio also saved a penalty kick from the Nigerians (81st).
The 2016 European champion travels to Qatar on Friday. On Thursday next week, the team meets Ghana for the World Cup opener. Other opponents in Group H are Uruguay and South Korea.
Switzerland conceded a damper before the start of the World Cup
Meanwhile, Switzerland conceded a damper in the only World Cup test. Murat Yakin’s team lost 2-0 (0-0) to Ghana, who also qualified for the World Cup, in Abu Dhabi on Thursday. When goalkeeper Yann Sommer made a comeback after a month-long injury break, the Confederates’ defense didn’t look good with goals from Mohammed Salisu (70′) and Antoine Semenyo (74′).
Red Bull Salzburg striker Noah Okafor came on in the second half and missed a chance just after the break when the score was 0-0, firing over the goal from a through ball. Switzerland will play their first World Cup game next Thursday (November 24, 11 a.m., live on ORF1) against Cameroon.
Successful dress rehearsal for Spain
Meanwhile, Spain celebrated a successful dress rehearsal. Coach Luis Enrique’s team beat Jordan 3-1 (1-0) in the only friendly at the World Cup and showed themselves to be in good form. The goals for “La Roja” scored in the Jordanian capital Amman Ansu Fati (12th), Gavi (55th) and Nico Williams (83rd). In stoppage time, the hosts scored the consolation goal (91′) after a mistake by Cesar Azpilicueta.
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