The Manchester United midfielder starred to salvage a win after an otherwise disappointing performance from his side.
Bruno Fernandes scored a wonderful goal and was a constant source of creativity as Portugal grabbed a valuable away win to bolster their Euro 2024 qualification hopes. He was the difference maker in a night were Cristiano Ronaldo consistently misfired, with the Selecao stumbling to a 1-0 victory.
Slovakia enjoyed some promising moments in the early goings, putting two efforts on target in the opening 10 minutes. Portugal responded with a chance of their own, but Bruno Fernandes' tame effort was easily saved. But he didn't miss when given another chance. The Manchester United midfielder slalomed through the Slovakia defence and found the bottom corner with a driven strike to give Portugal a 1-0 lead on the stroke of half time.
The hosts could have leveled things early in the second half, as Ivan Schranz ran through on goal, only to skew a shot outside the post. But Portugal were mostly comfortable for the rest of proceedings — if rather ineffective in front of goal. Ronaldo missed a handful of chances, and was perhaps fortunate not to be sent off for sliding in dangerously on Martin Dubravka.
Still, the Portugal defence did enough to see off Slovakia, who never really threatened at the other end as time wound down. The Selecao will have to play better in the future — and will surely need more from their captain — but they will certainly take a tricky away win.
GOAL rates Portugal's players from Tehelne Pole…
Goalkeeper & Defence
Diogo Costa (7/10):
Only had a few saves to make, and looked comfortable throughout. Not an easy place to keep a clean sheet.
Diogo Dalot (6/10):
Solid defensively, but lacking going forward. Doesn't have the best understanding with Bernardo Silva.
Ruben Dias (8/10):
Continued his excellent start to the season with an imperious performance at the back.
Antonio Silva (6/10):
Not the most comfortable evening for the teenager, who was consistently targeted by the home side. Good to see him get minutes, though.
Joao Cancelo (6/10):
Enjoyed some excellent forward runs, and tried to ping the ball around a bit. Still hasn't found the form that made him so devastating for Man City 18 months ago.
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Joao Pahlinha (6/10):
Flew into tackles with his usual gusto, but didn't always time them. Could have been booked on at least three occasions.
Bernardo Silva (7/10):
Assisted Fernandes' goal, but was otherwise starved of opportunities to create. Unclear if he and Vitinha can function in the same XI. He was much better after the PSG man went off.
Bruno Fernandes (8/10):
Took his goal wonderfully after failing to get involved early on. His influence grew in the second half, and he was his side's most dangerous attacking threat. A fine performance for the birthday boy.
Attack
Vitinha (5/10):
On the ball a lot without being particularly effective. Certainly deserved the start on the strength of his showings for PSG, but didn't do enough to suggest he should keep his spot in the side.
Cristiano Ronaldo (5/10):
Not at his best. His movement was as effective as expected, but it wasn't his night in front of goal. Fortunate to avoid a sending off after a reckless challenge on the goalie. He's set high standards, and simply didn't meet them.
Rafael Leao (7/10):
Embarked on a number of impressive forward runs, and was a constant danger on the ball. Unlucky to be subbed after 60 minutes.
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Subs & Manager
Nelson Semedo (6/10):
Got forward well and kept things simple.
Otavio (5/10):
Rather anonymous for 25 minutes.
Pedro Neto (6/10):
Offered valuable pace on the wing in his fourth international cap.
Roberto Martinez (7/10):
Deployed a back four for the first time in qualifying, and Portugal were much more effective as a result. Although his side wasn't exactly devastating, they defended well and found their moments going forward. He will take the three points.