Portugal Ratings vs Iceland: Cristiano Ronaldo Goes Missing, But Bruno Fernandes Steps Up to Secure Perfect Euro 2024 Qualifying Record
Portugal Ratings vs Iceland: Cristiano Ronaldo Goes Missing, But Bruno Fernandes Steps Up to Secure Perfect Euro 2024 Qualifying Record
Portugal capped off a perfect Euro 2024 qualifying campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Iceland on Sunday evening. Despite Cristiano Ronaldo's subdued performance, Bruno Fernandes stepped up to deliver the crucial breakthrough goal, ensuring Roberto Martinez's side maintained their flawless record heading into next summer's tournament.
Portugal's Dominant Display
From the outset, Portugal asserted their dominance, dictating possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities. However, they were met with a resolute Icelandic defense that proved difficult to break down. Ronaldo, Portugal's all-time leading goalscorer, struggled to find his usual rhythm and was largely ineffective throughout the first half.
Fernandes' Moment of Magic
Just before the interval, Bruno Fernandes unlocked Iceland's stubborn rearguard with a moment of sheer brilliance. Receiving a clever flick from Bernardo Silva, Fernandes unleashed a powerful drive from the edge of the box that arrowed into the bottom corner, leaving the Icelandic goalkeeper helpless.
Horta Seals the Victory
With the deadlock broken, Portugal continued to press for a second goal, and their persistence paid off in the 53rd minute. Ricardo Horta, injected into the fray as a substitute, capitalized on a spilled Joao Felix shot to tap home from close range, effectively putting the game beyond Iceland's reach.
Portugal's Unbeaten Record
Portugal's victory over Iceland marked their 10th consecutive win in Euro 2024 qualifying, securing their place at the tournament with a perfect record. Roberto Martinez's side will head into next summer's competition brimming with confidence, boasting a formidable attacking lineup and a solid defensive unit.
Player Ratings
Portugal
Diogo Costa (6/10) – Made a couple of routine saves but was rarely tested.
Diogo Dalot (7/10) – Provided attacking threat down the right flank and contributed defensively.
Pepe (7/10) – Experienced defender marshaled the backline with authority.
Ruben Dias (7/10) – Solid partner for Pepe, ensuring Portugal maintained a clean sheet.
Nuno Mendes (6/10) – Offered width and creativity from the left-back position.
Ruben Neves (6/10) – Controlled the midfield with his passing range and composure.
William Carvalho (7/10) – Provided a solid shield in front of the defense, disrupting Iceland's attacks.
Bernardo Silva (7/10) – Orchestrated Portugal's attacking play with his vision and technical ability.
Bruno Fernandes (8/10) – Stepped up in Ronaldo's absence, scoring the crucial opening goal.
Joao Felix (7/10) – Showed glimpses of his talent, contributing to the second goal.
Cristiano Ronaldo (5/10) – Struggled to find his usual impact but remained a threat despite his quiet performance.
Iceland
Ogmundur Kristinsson (6/10) – Made a couple of good saves but was powerless to prevent Portugal's goals.
Hjortur Hermannsson (6/10) – Defended diligently but struggled to contain Portugal's attacking threats.
Birkir Saevarsson (6/10) – Veteran defender provided experience and leadership at the back.
Hordur Bjorgvin Magnusson (6/10) – Battled hard but was ultimately overwhelmed by Portugal's attacking prowess.
Vidar Arnason (6/10) – Offered an attacking outlet from left-back but couldn't provide a final ball.
Aron Gunnarson (6/10) – Anchored the midfield but couldn't stem the flow of Portugal's attacks.
Birkir Bjorn Bjarnason (6/10) – Provided energy and tenacity in midfield but lacked creativity.
Isak Bergmann Johannesson (6/10) – Showed flashes of talent but was largely ineffective in attack.
Albert Gudmundsson (6/10) – Struggled to make an impact on the game.
Jon Thor Hauksson (6/10) – Threatened with his pace but couldn't find the back of the net.
Kolbeinn Sigthorsson (5/10) – Isolated up front, with little service to work with.
Conclusion
Portugal's victory over Iceland was a testament to their collective strength and resilience. Despite Ronaldo's subdued performance, Fernandes stepped up to deliver the crucial goal, while the rest of the team contributed to a solid defensive display. Portugal's perfect record in qualifying is a testament to their quality and their aspirations for Euro 2024.