Portugal claimed their first victory at the FIFA Confederations Cup 2017 after defeating Russia 1-0 in front of a crowd of 42,759 in Moscow on Wednesday evening.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s early header was enough to give the European champions all three points at the Spartak Stadium.
Despite their best efforts, the tournament hosts could not find a way past Portugal goalkeeper Rui Patricio in this Group A encounter.
In the first half, Portugal were obviously the better side. Stanislav Cherchesov’s plan was not working, though it was a personal mistake that lead to a goal and Ronaldo’s magic. Russia played with just Fedor Smolov up front, and until the 60th minute, he did not have any moments. Late in the game, it was much better after Russia’s substitutions, but Portugal never lost the control.”
An impressive opening half from Portugal. After the early goal, it looked like they seemed on course to score two or three. Somehow, they did not click up front today with the usually deadly partnership of Ronaldo and Andre Silva being unusually subdued. Bernardo Silva was the most impressive of Fernando Santos’s changes for this match and he was involved in the majority of attacks. Portugal survived a nervy second half, but got the crucial three points and are now in a strong position for a place in the semi-finals.”
Budweiser Man of the Match
Scoring his 74th goal for Portugal early on, Cristiano Ronaldo proved highly influential again for the European champions, having had further sights at the Russian goal during Wednesday’s contest.
Source: Fifa