League of Nations – Portugal win by beating the Czech Republic and remain ahead of Spain

Well done work. Portugal defeated the Czech Republic without forcing their talent (2-0) on Thursday night in Lisbon. Cristiano Ronaldo did not score, but Bernardo Silva shone with two assists to Joao Cancelo and Gonçalo Guedes. Victorious for the second time in three games, the Lusitanians consolidate their first place in Group 2 against Spain, which they will find at the end of September.

The José Alvalade Stadium was celebrating when it found its protégés, four days after a demonstration against Switzerland (4-0). The net may have shaken less this time, but the crowd enjoyed the offensive football played by Fernando Santos’ men. For his 100th on the Seleçao bench, the Portuguese coach made four changes, including Bernardo Silva in the starting eleven. The good idea of ​​the evening, as the middle of the pocket illuminated the meeting of his class and his vista.

Bernardo Silva with the wand

After a short tussle with the defender, Joao Cancelo finally tucked the ball home. The connection between the two Manchester City players was glaring and the Czechs, so inspired since the start of the 2022 Nations League, remained pale in the face of this deal. She flew in after 33 minutes, time to set the sights. Silva, on the right, threw Joao Cancelo into the back of the net. In good posture, the winger was not prayed for by shooting Jindrich Stanek (1-0) up close.

Led and put under pressure by Spain, the Czechs were forced to reveal themselves. They had already tried to fool Diogo Costa, preferred to Rui Patricio in the goals. In vain (16th, 30th). They did not have time to initiate a change of mind as Gonçalo Guedes scored the goal of the break on a new service from Silva. Covered by a defender, the FC Valencia striker deceived the vigilance of the opposing goalkeeper with a beating (2-0, 38th). His first national team goal since October 11, 2019.

Ronaldo discreet

The second period was less lively, despite the activity of Diogo Jota (60th). But Portugal proved they could offer play – Fernando Santos still making offensive substitutions at the end of the match – and most importantly win without Cristiano Ronaldo taking part in the party. Four days after scoring his 116th and 117th goals for his country, the Manchester United leader remained unobtrusive.

With seven points in three games, Portugal remain the only leader in Group 2. On Sunday, the Lusitanians will face Switzerland in Geneva, before finding Spain, their main competitor to qualify for the Final Four, at the end of September.