Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score in five World Cups, but Portugal required a couple of late goals to rescue a nervy 3-2 win against Ghana on November 24 (Thursday). Just two days after having his Manchester United contract terminated by mutual consent, free agent Ronaldo converted a penalty to break down a stubborn Ghana side in their Group H opener.
Ghana were furious with the awarding of the 65th-minute spot-kick for Mohammed Salisu's challenge on Ronaldo, but they hit back through Andre Ayew in the 73rd minute. However, Joao Felix fired Portugal back in front and substitute Rafael Leao added a third, which proved important when Osman Bukari scored a late consolation for Ghana, who missed a glorious chance to snatch a point through Inaki Williams.
Here are the five key moments from Portugal vs Ghana FIFA World Cup 2022:
1. Ronaldo creates history
Ronaldo's goal will ensure his name will forever be in World Cup folklore as the first – and quite possibly only for a while – player to score in five separate tournaments (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022). As a sign of his longevity, the 37-year-old is both Portugal's youngest and oldest scorer at the World Cup, having netted his first goal against Iran in 2006 at the age of 21 years and 132 days.
2. Diogo Costa's horrendous mistake
Diogo Costa almost became a villain as he committed a grave blunder during the stoppage time with Portugal leading 3-2. It was a frantic finish to the game and Portugal's goalkeeper almost handed Ghana two points singlehandedly. Inaki Williams almost snatched a winner after Costa displayed lack of game awareness and rolled the ball ahead of him inside the box. Williams, who was lurking behind him, came storming in front but slipped just at the wrong time, giving Portuguese defenders time to clear the ball.
3. Bukari's 'Siu' celebration in front of Ronaldo
Ghana became the second team in World Cup history to fail to have a shot or a touch in the opposition box in the first half of a game since records began in 1966. Their first shot did not arrive until the 54th minute, yet they came to life in the final quarter of the match with a couple of goals, the latter of which Bukari celebrated by doing Ronaldo's 'Siu' celebration. Ronaldo reaction to the celebration was also eye-catching.
4. Bruno Fernandes' two delicious assist
Joao Felix and substitute Rafael Leao ended up being on the scoresheet and the duo would thank Bruno Fernandes for delivering delicious assists. The Manchester United midfielder unleashed a well-measured through pass to Felix first and then a sublime pass to Leao. Once again, Fernandes proved to be a difference maker.
(With agency inputs)
