Ronaldo frustrated as Portugal edge Wales in Nations League

Ronaldo said he was glad to start well after the match, adding “First step is done. Let’s go, Portugal” on social media.

João Felix struck in the 22nd minute to win it for Portugal, while the 41-year-old Ronaldo missed a golden chance and saw a goal ruled out for offside before being substituted in the 67th minute.

It was Ronaldo’s 234th cap as he decided to prolong his international career following a disappointing World Cup, but his contribution ended when he gave way to Gonçalo Ramos.

Portugal dominated the match with 23 shots to Wales’ five, and the home side were already two points clear in the Nations League A group.

The 2:1 victory over Norway on Wednesday had given them a solid foundation, and they will look to extend that lead when they face Denmark next.

For Wales, the defeat was a setback in a campaign where they are trying to improve their seeding for the 2028 European Championship.

They had already lost to Portugal in the group stage, and the result leaves them with a difficult run of fixtures ahead.