Cristiano Ronaldo made history by becoming the first player to score 900 top-level career goals as Portugal kicked off their Nations League campaign with a victory over Croatia.
The 39-year-old forward volleyed in from close range in the 34th minute to extend Portugal’s lead, capitalizing on a deep cross from Nuno Mendes. This marked his record-extending 131st goal for Portugal, coming exactly 20 years after he netted his first international goal, and he celebrated emotionally as he sank to his knees.
Manchester United full-back Diogo Dalot opened the scoring early for Portugal but later inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, allowing Croatia to respond before halftime.
Ronaldo’s remarkable tally includes goals scored for Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and most recently Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
Following the opening match, Portugal sits level on points at the top of League A Group 1 alongside Poland, who secured a win against Scotland on Thursday.
Credit: BBC Sport
