Cristiano Ronaldo struggles as Portugal beat Wales

Cristiano Ronaldo endured a frustrating return to Portugal’s starting line-up, although the national team began its Nations League campaign with a victory. The 41-year-old forward was back in the side at Sporting’s José Alvalade stadium, the ground where he launched his professional career. Jorge Jesus, taking charge as Portugal’s new head coach, selected Ronaldo to lead the attack against Wales.

Portugal won 1-0, with João Félix scoring the only goal in the 22nd minute. Félix, Ronaldo’s team-mate at Al-Nassr, finished a move that reflected Portugal’s dominance during the opening period. Ronaldo had several chances to add to the lead but could not find the required accuracy. His most notable miss came shortly after half-time, in the 49th minute, when he failed to convert a major opportunity.

Ronaldo did put the ball in the net during that same minute, but the effort was ruled out for offside. His missed chances left him visibly frustrated, and Jesus replaced him with Gonçalo Ramos in the 67th minute. Portugal then produced a disappointing second half before securing the narrow result.

The win gives Portugal a positive start despite Ronaldo’s ineffective night in front of goal. Their next Nations League assignment comes on Sunday against Norway, whose attack includes Erling Haaland. Ronaldo will therefore have another opportunity to make an impact after a return that produced no goal and an early substitution, even as Portugal collected the points.