Cristiano Ronaldo misses easy chances (Screengrab)
Portugal ended its FIFA World Cup preparations with a 2-1 win over Nigeria in a friendly match, but it was not an ideal evening for Cristiano Ronaldo.The veteran striker had many good scoring opportunities, but failed to find the net. Ronaldo, who holds the men’s international goalscoring record with 143, has received more playing time than any other player in Portugal’s starting lineup. But despite having chances in both halves, he was unable to add to his impressive tally before being substituted in the 65th minute.He watches:
Portugal took the lead in the 23rd minute through Pedro Neto. Nigeria responded well and tied the score after 14 minutes when Akor Adams scored.The game remained tight until the second half, when Portugal’s substitutes made their impact. Francisco Conceicao, who came on as a substitute, produced the decisive moment in the 75th minute.
The winger cut in from the right flank and fired a powerful shot into the far corner to restore Portugal’s lead.Portugal managed to maintain the advantage and ended its preparations for the World Cup with a win.
Eyes on the World Cup
Although Ronaldo missed a goal, the match still represented another important step in his impressive international career. The 41-year-old is scheduled to participate in the World Cup Finals for the sixth time, tying the record for the largest number of World Cup appearances by a player.
Portugal will now turn its full attention to the tournament, having been drawn in Group K alongside Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia.The win over Nigeria gives Portugal positive momentum ahead of the competition, although Ronaldo will hope his finishing touch returns when the World Cup begins.
