Manchester United pair Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo combined to send Portugal to the 2022 World Cup as they beat North Macedonia in their playoff final.
The United duo delivered the all-important moment in Porto as Ronaldo provided the assist for Fernandes' first-half strike, with the midfielder adding a second after the break as Portugal secured a 2-0 victory. It means Ronaldo will play in his fifth World Cup in his quest to add the final trophy missing from his collection.
Having overcome Turkey just a few days previously, Portugal knew they were just 90 minutes away from booking their place at this year’s tournament. Few could have predicted the team standing in their way though.
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North Macedonia caused an almighty upset when they knocked European champions Italy out in their semi-final. They couldn’t repeat the trick though as United’s stars combined to send their country to Qatar later this year.
Portugal carried the early threat, with Manchester City’s Joao Cancelo getting plenty of joy down the right against former Leeds full-back Ezgjan Alioski. Fernandes couldn’t supply the finishing touch from his cross though as he headed over the woodwork.
A glorious chance for Ronaldo would follow just seconds later, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s usually ruthless streak letting him down. The United ace was played through on goal, but with just the goalkeeper to beat he dragged his shot wide on his left foot as North Macedonia clung on.
Liverpool forward Diogo Jota came close as he headed wide from Fernandes’ corner, before the United man combined with his club-mate to give the hosts a deserved lead. Ronaldo pounced on Stefan Ristovski’s poor attempt at a cross-field ball, before playing through Fernandes through. The Reds star made no mistake as he powered his strike beyond Stole Dimitrievski, and settled a few lingering Portuguese nerves.
Things could have been even better had Jota managed to turn home after Ronaldo’s pull-back caused panic among the visitors’ defence, with the hosts taking firm control heading into the break.
Portugal remained in the ascendancy at the start of the second half, with Ronaldo heading over from Fernandes' corner as they looked to find the killer blow. They wouldn't have to wait much longer, with Fernandes adding his second of the night to confirm the hosts' qualification, and continue Ronaldo's quest for a World Cup crown.
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