Ronaldo leads Portugal to comfortable win; Spain score late equaliser

(Football news) In a UEFA Nations League match, Portugal dismantled Switzerland 4-0 at the Estadio Jose Almeida. The visitors were completely outplayed by Ronaldo and company throughout the 90 minutes. Haris Seferovic looked to have given Switzerland the lead in the 6th minute but the goal was ruled out for handball. Nine minutes later, Cristiano Ronaldo struck a freekick that was saved by Gregor Kobel but William Carvalho was there to score off the rebound.

After taking the lead, Portugal stepped on the gas to try and get a cushion. Portugal were pressing high and got their goal in the 35th minute after Diogo Jota set up Ronaldo. Just 4 minutes later Jota's shot was saved by Kobel only for Ronaldo to tap it in. The Manchester United striker had at least two other massive chances to score before half time but failed to do so. Portugal continued their relentless attack in the 2nd half. Substitute Bernardo Silva set up his club teammate Joao Cancelo who made it 4-0 to the home side. On another day Ronaldo would have scored 5 goals but he was un-characteristic in front of goal.

Spain had to come back from a goal down twice to secure a draw against Czech Republic away from home. It only took 4 minutes for Jakub Pesek to open the scoring for the home side. Gavi equalised for Spain just before half time with a cool finish. Spain were on the attack in the 2nd half but Jan Kuchta chipped Unai Simon against the run of play in the 66th minute as Czech Republic regained their lead. The visitors had a couple of good chances to equalise. The goal finally came in the 90th minute after substitute Marco Asensio's cross was headed home by Inigo Martinez. 

Spain dominated the majority of the game but their high line led to their downfall. Czech Republic were pretty efficient despite having only 20% possession. Luis Enrique's substitutions were on point and had a positive impact. The manager however has a few problems to solve, the main one being conversion of chances. Portugal now sit on top of the table with Czech Republic 2nd and Spain 3rd as each team still has one match left to play in this international break. 

Also read: A day full of surprises in the UEFA Nations League

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