Cristiano Ronaldo helped Portugal solidify their grip on top spot in Group F with a very dramatic 3-2 victory against Hungary at the Puskás Arena in Budapest. The win ensured Portugal’s perfect start and also saw Ronaldo equal the all-time record for goals in World Cup qualifiers.
Portugal were expected to make light work of Hungary, although it was reported in the match preview that Hungary had all the tools and ammunition to cause an upset in the encounter. Softfootball reports that the evening started brightly for the hosts, who struck first after 20 minutes. Zsolt Nagy burst down the left flank and delivered a pinpoint cross for Barnabás Varga, who guided his header in off the post.
Portugal responded with waves of pressure, but frustration grew as chances went begging. Ronaldo was unfortunate to see a close-range effort denied by Balázs Tóth, while João Neves also saw a big chance go begging just before the break.
Relief finally came when João Cancelo’s touch found Bernardo Silva, who smashed home from close range to level just before half-time.
The visitors completed the turnaround early in the second half. A handball from Loïc Négo was harshly judged, but Ronaldo showed no hesitation from the spot, sending his penalty into the bottom corner for his 39th WCQ goal, drawing level with the competition’s scoring record.
Hungary, however, refused to roll over. Varga struck again, capitalising on a defensive lapse to make it 2-2 and send the home fans wild; however, their joy was short-lived. Within two minutes, Bernardo Silva set up João Cancelo on the edge of the box with a well-timed pass, and the defender swept a precise finish past Tóth to seal the win for Portugal.
After Cancelo’s goal, Portugal took its official X handle to announce the victory. They Posted:
The result leaves Portugal on six points from their opening two matches, following their 5-0 win over Armenia. Armenia are second after defeating Ireland 2-1 at the Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium.
Portugal’s next challenge comes on October 14 against the Republic of Ireland as they continue their march toward another World Cup finals.
