Portugal thrashed Liechtenstein 4-0 on Thursday in Roberto Martínez’s debut as coach of the ‘quinos’, led again by Cristiano Ronaldo on a night in which he claimed another double and a new record.
It was an almost perfect baptism for the Spanish coach. He immediately won over the home crowd by singing all the lines of the Portuguese national anthem, and then forced his team into an attacking performance, although it was a long time coming.
The moment was celebratory, as Cristiano not only brought back the smile wearing the Portuguese jersey, but also set a new record in his career by becoming the player with the most appearances for the national team, 197.
Martinez’s revolution began in tactics. Three central defenders, full-backs who were practically wings and many midfielders who served João Félix and Cristiano up front.
Despite the fact that the opponent had a population below the capacity of the Alvalade Stadium in Lisbon, the Spanish coach interpreted this match as a final, not as an opportunity for experimentation.
However, in the first 45 minutes, the Portuguese formation was rusty and somewhat tasteless on the field, which made it difficult to play attacking football as envisioned by their new coach.
Portugal took the lead in the 8th minute, when João Cancelo’s shot from outside the penalty area deflected off several players and tricked the Principality’s goalkeeper.’
38
are the years of forward Cristiano Ronaldo from Portugal.
197
matches that Cristiano Ronaldo has with the Portuguese national team.
Source: Panama America
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