Cristiano Ronaldo and teammates celebrate a goal in Portugal's 3-0 win over Turkey in their Euro 2024 group match. © Twitter (@Cristiano)
Cristiano Ronaldo once again etched his name into the annals of European Championship history. Portugal triumphed 3-0 over Turkey in their second group match of Euro 2024, securing a place in the second round with a game to spare.
Match Summary
First Half Dominance
Portugal began the match with intensity and purpose, immediately putting Turkey on the back foot. The deadlock was smashed in the 21st minute when Bernardo Silva showcased his clinical finishing, putting Portugal ahead with a well-taken goal. Just seven minutes later, a moment of misfortune for Turkey saw defender Akaydin inadvertently steer the ball into his own net, doubling Portugal’s lead.
Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Assist
The match’s highlight came in the 68th minute when Cristiano Ronaldo unselfishly set up Bruno Fernandes for Portugal’s third goal. That assist secured the victory and saw Ronaldo break the record for the most assists in European Championship history, with a total of eight. At 39 years and 138 days, Ronaldo also became the oldest player to record an assist in the competition.
Key Moments
- 21st minute: Bernardo Silva’s precise strike gave Portugal the lead.
- 28th minute: An own goal by Turkey’s Akaydin extended Portugal’s advantage.
- 68th minute: Ronaldo’s assist to Bruno Fernandes sealed the win and broke the assist record.
Cristiano Ronaldo was undeniably the standout performer. His vision and selflessness were displayed as he played a pivotal role in Portugal’s dominant performance. His assist to Fernandes highlighted his playmaking abilities and his enduring influence on the pitch.
Group F Standings
With this victory, Portugal sits comfortably at the top of Group F, having won their opening matches against Czechia and Turkey. They are guaranteed to finish first in the group, regardless of the outcome of their final game against Georgia on Wednesday.
Portugal will face Georgia with confidence and momentum. While they have already secured their place in the knockout stages, they will aim to maintain their perfect record and build further momentum. The loss means Turkey must regroup and hope for a favourable result in their final group match to keep their Euro 2024 hopes alive.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s record-breaking performance and Portugal’s comprehensive victory over Turkey underscore their credentials as serious contenders in Euro 2024. As Ronaldo continues to defy age and set new records, football fans worldwide will eagerly anticipate what he and the Portuguese team will achieve next.