In the fourth matchday of the 2022 World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo made history as he helped his Portugal side win against Ghana, just days after his Premier League club terminated his contract. The 37-year-old football superstar is playing his record-equalling fifth World Cup with Portugal. Continue reading to get sure football predictions and odds here!
The Group H thriller started when the Portugal captain was awarded a controversial penalty in the 62nd minute. He then fired a low shot past goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi to give Portugal a 1-0 lead and become the first male player to score at five World Cups after scoring in 2006, 2010, 2014 and 2018 tournaments. More football league trophy stories here!
The South African side did not waste time as they scored the equalizer nine minutes later, with André Ayew finding the net in the 73rd minute, the first goal from the five African teams in the 2022 World Cup. In the extra time, the 2016 European champions quickly responded through João Félix in the 78th minute and Rafael Leão two minutes later, with Bruno Fernandes assisting both goals.
In the dying moments, Ghana’s Osman Bukari scored on a header to cut the lead to 3-2, which was also the final score of the match as Portugal held on to claim all three points. Ghana’s Iñaki Williams nearly produced a late equalizer as he stole the ball from Portugal’s goalkeeper but slipped at the crucial moment. In the post-match interview, Ronaldo lauded “beautiful moment” on his fifth World Cup.
“It was a week that finishes the chapter, it’s closed. We won and I could help the team – the rest does not matter,” Ronaldo said after the game. “This was a beautiful moment, my fifth World Cup. We won, we started on our good foot and it is a very important win. The first match is crucial in these tournaments. The first player to score goals at five World Cups, this makes me very proud.”
Earlier, Ronaldo’s Premier League club announced the termination of his contract following his controversial tell-all interview where he revealed his frustrations at the club and slammed the owners and the manager, saying he has “no respect” for Ten Hag. “Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect,” the club said in a statement.
Ronaldo scored only once in 10 league appearances for United this season. “Everyone at Manchester United remains focused on continuing the team’s progress under Erik ten Hag and working together to deliver success on the pitch,” the club added. Portugal face Uruguay next before their final matchup against South Korea.
Exciting games and big wins as you visit 12BET where exclusive promotions await you.
Visit 12BET login and join us to claim exclusive benefits and more