Portugal secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Wales in their UEFA Nations League group A4 opener, despite a frustrating night for captain Cristiano Ronaldo. Joao Felix scored the decisive goal in the 22nd minute at Jose Alvalade Stadium in Lisbon on 24/9/2026.

The match also marked the debut of Jorge Jesus as Portugal's new head coach. At 72, Jesus, who succeeded Roberto Martinez after the 2026 World Cup, became the oldest coach to lead the Portuguese national team. Ronaldo returned to the stadium where he began his career with Sporting Lisbon.

Coach Jorge Jesus before Portugal's 1-0 victory over Wales in the opening match of Nations League group A4 at Jose Alvalade Stadium, Lisbon, Portugal on 24/9/2026. Photo: Abola

Jesus brings extensive experience, having managed Benfica twice and Sporting for three years. He also previously worked with Ronaldo at Al Nassr during the 2025-2026 season, guiding the club to the Saudi Pro League championship. Prior to the match, Jesus defended CR7, praising the 41-year-old forward as a national icon.

Ronaldo's iconic status is undeniable. "Ronaldo fever" is evident throughout Lisbon, particularly at the official Portugal national team stores in Praca da Figueira square. Here, fans can purchase a wide array of CR7-branded merchandise, including: underwear, masks, models, lanyards, Lego, replicas of the Ballon d'Or, and a collection commemorating his time at Sporting.

Ronaldo started the match, wearing the captain's armband, in his 234th appearance for the national team. The 41-year-old forward was supported by an attacking trio of Joao Felix, Pedro Neto, and Bruno Fernandes.

On paper, the match was an uneven matchup. Portugal, ranked 7th in the world, stood 31 places above Wales. The Portuguese squad features many players from major European clubs, while Wales, led by coach Craig Bellamy, faced significant challenges due to injuries and player withdrawals.

The on-field action reflected this disparity. Portugal dominated possession with 61% and registered 20 shots with six on target, compared to Wales' two shots with one on target. Despite Portugal's dominance, Ronaldo, though active, lacked the clinical edge in front of goal.

Cristiano Ronaldo dribbles during the match. Photo: Abola

Ronaldo had several opportunities throughout the game. In the 10th minute, Felix's through ball allowed Ronaldo to break free, but his shot from a tight angle went wide. Later, in the 40th minute, another pass from Felix found Ronaldo, whose first-time shot towards the far corner was weak and easily saved by the Wales goalkeeper.

His most significant chance came early in the second half. Pedro Neto's sprint down the right wing led to a cross into the penalty area. The ball was slightly high, causing Ronaldo to volley it over the bar with his left foot in front of a nearly open goal.

The Portugal captain believed he had scored his 147th international goal in the 59th minute, after striking a diagonal shot into the net from a Bruno Fernandes assist. Ronaldo immediately began his familiar spinning celebration, but his joy was short-lived. VAR intervened, ruling him offside and disallowing the goal. Less than 10 minutes later, Ronaldo was substituted for Goncalo Ramos.

Despite Ronaldo's struggles to find the net, Portugal secured a 1-0 victory, providing a positive start under coach Jesus. On 27/9, Ronaldo and his teammates will face a tougher test when they travel to play Norway.

Hong Duy