Portugal Win Big in UEFA Nations League Opener

Cristiano Ronaldo Scores Hat-Trick as Portugal Thrash Croatia

Portugal's national football team got their UEFA Nations League campaign off to a winning start with a convincing 4-0 victory against Croatia on Thursday.

Cristiano Ronaldo opened the scoring for Portugal in the 17th minute with a stunning free-kick that flew into the top corner of the net.

The Juventus forward doubled Portugal's lead in the 41st minute with a close-range finish after being set up by Bernardo Silva.

Ronaldo completed his hat-trick in the 65th minute with another clinical finish, this time from outside the box.

Portugal's fourth goal came in the 88th minute, courtesy of a tap-in from Joao Cancelo.

The victory gives Portugal an early lead in Group A3 of the UEFA Nations League, with Croatia now facing an uphill battle to qualify for the semi-finals.

Ronaldo's Impressive Performance

Cristiano Ronaldo's hat-trick was his first for Portugal since September 2019.

It also took his international goal tally to 117, just 8 goals behind the all-time record held by Iran's Ali Daei.

Ronaldo's performance was all the more impressive considering that he has been struggling for form at club level with Manchester United this season.

Portugal's Strong Start to the Nations League

Portugal's victory over Croatia was their third consecutive win in all competitions.

They will now be looking to continue their good form when they face Sweden in their next Nations League match on Sunday.

A win against Sweden would put Portugal in a strong position to qualify for the semi-finals of the competition.

Croatia's Disappointing Start to the Nations League

Croatia's defeat to Portugal was their first loss in their last five matches.

They will now need to bounce back quickly when they face France in their next Nations League match on Sunday.

A defeat to France would leave Croatia facing an uphill battle to qualify for the semi-finals of the competition.