João Félix Goal Gives Portugal 1-0 Nations League Win Over Wales
Portugal opened their UEFA Nations League League A Group 4 campaign with a 1-0 home win over Wales, with João Félix’s deflected first-half strike proving enough at Estádio José Alvalade.
The result puts Portugal into a Sunday showdown with Norway for top spot in the group. Norway arrive after a 3-2 victory against Denmark, inspired by Erling Haaland.
Félix goal settles tight contest
- In the 22nd minute, Nuno Mendes carried possession forward and picked out Félix in space outside the area. The forward’s right-footed effort struck Ben Davies, took a significant deflection and beat Danny Ward.
- Cristiano Ronaldo had already passed up a close-range opening before seeing an apparent second Portugal goal ruled out after VAR intervention. Bruno Fernandes released him behind the defence in the 59th minute, but Ronaldo had moved too early before finishing into the far corner.
- Ronaldo, still on 979 career goals and chasing the 1,000-goal mark, was withdrawn for Gonçalo Ramos in the 67th minute as Roberto Martínez refreshed his front line.
Wales stay alive but cannot respond
Portugal produced 23 attempts and created two major opportunities, yet could not add to their advantage. Ward made four saves as Wales remained within reach until the end.
The visitors, weakened for the trip to Lisbon, defended with resolve, recording 15 clearances and 52 recoveries. But their threat at the other end was limited: Wales managed five shots, with only one hitting the target.
What happens next
- Portugal face Norway on Sunday in a match set to determine the Group 4 leaders.
- Norway go into that fixture on the back of their 3-2 win over Denmark.
- Wales must regroup after a disciplined display brought no points from their opening group match.
