Cristiano Ronaldo has posted a straightforward message after coming off the bench to rescue Portugal in their dramatic UEFA Nations League victory against Scotland, Soccernet.football reports.
The 39-year-old football legend, now with 901 career goals, delivered once again for his country with an 88th-minute winner in a thrilling contest at the Estadio da Luz.
The game started with a shock for the Portuguese side when Scotland’s midfielder Scott McTominay put his team ahead with a seventh-minute header.
Portugal struggled in the first half, trailing 1-0 at the break.
Ronaldo, named as a substitute for the first time since the 2022 World Cup quarter-final against Morocco, was introduced at half-time by manager Roberto Martinez in hopes of turning the game around.
Portugal’s efforts began to bear fruit in the second half when Bruno Fernandes leveled the score in the 54th minute.
As the clock ticked towards full time, it was Ronaldo who made the difference, tapping in a Nuno Mendes cross in the 88th minute to secure a 2-1 win.
His goal, the 901st of his illustrious career, ensured Portugal’s second victory in as many games in Group A1 of the Nations League.
After the match, Ronaldo posted on social media, saying: “Two games, two wins. Thanks for all the support, Portugal!”
Reflecting on his continued influence, Ronaldo remains an essential player for both club and country, and he will now return to Saudi Arabia, where he plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.
Dois jogos, duas vitórias 🇵🇹 Obrigado por todo o apoio, Portugal! pic.twitter.com/YiwMuVGs04
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) September 8, 2024