Cristiano Ronaldo helped Portugal move top of Group B and eliminate Morocco in a hard earned 1-0 win.
From a corner kick, Ronaldo found space in centre of box and smashed in a header to put Portugal in front.
That header also makes him Europe’s top international goal-scorer with 85 goals in international football.
Morocco then dominated down the flanks for much of first half, with their best chance falling to Medhi Benatia who headed wide in stoppage time from a corner.
Portugal however could of put clear air between them and Morocco just minutes beforehand, when Ronaldo crossed to Goncalo Guedes who couldn’t get a shot on target from a few yards out.
Both teams then had chances after break to score with Ronaldo blasting a Guedes slice over bar, six minutes after restart.
Portugal’s Rui Patricio then produced two exceptional saves to keep Younes Belhanda’s efforts out just before the hour mark.
Morocco then took control like they did in first half but a Benatia foul on Ronaldo in 84th minute on edge of box, nearly sealed their fate.
Ronaldo then found wall with his free-kick but in end, his fourth minute header proved enough for the win at Morocco’s expense.
This result leaves Portugal top of Group B ahead of Iran vs Spain this evening, where an Iran win will see them qualify ahead of Monday’s final round of Group B matches.
Next up for Portugal is Iran whilst Morocco will face Spain.
Leave a Reply