UEFA Nations League: Cristiano Ronaldo strikes late to give Portugal 2-1 win against Scotland

Second half goals from Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo saw the Selecao record their second consecutive win in the tournament.

Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates scoring the second goal. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Portugal substitute Cristiano Ronaldo struck a late winner as his side came from a goal down to beat Scotland 2-1 and continue its strong start to the Nations League on Sunday.

After Bruno Fernandes had fired in Portugal’s equaliser, Ronaldo pounced in the 88th minute for his 901st career goal.

Scotland was given hope of a first win against Portugal since 1980 as it took a shock lead through Scott McTominay’s bullet header in the seventh minute.

But the visitor ended up with nothing to show for its efforts as 39-year-old Ronaldo again delivered for his country.

Portugal leads League A Group 1 with six points after it started with a victory over Croatia, who is second on three following a 1-0 win against Poland on Sunday. Scotland has suffered two defeats, both of them to late goals.

The Scots arrived in Lisbon still stinging from a 3-2 home defeat by Poland but the travelling Tartan Army were soon in full voice in the Estadio da Luz as former Manchester United midfielder McTominay arrived at the back post to power home a superb cross by Kenny McLean.

AS IT HAPPENED | Portugal vs Scotland highlights, UEFA Nations League

Portugal responded to lay siege to Scotland’s goal but keeper Angus Gunn made a string of saves, one a world-class effort to keep out Rafael Leao’s low drive.

The host had 15 goal attempts before the break but was left frustrated as Scotland dug deep to protect its lead.

Gunn was beaten in the 54th minute though as the ball was pulled back to Fernandes whose shot was well-struck but probably should have been kept out by the Scotland keeper.

Portugal seemed to run out of steam but found another gear late on with Joao Felix twice being denied by superb Gunn saves and Ronaldo heading against the inside of the post.

Inevitably, however, Ronaldo stole the limelight with a simple tap-in from a wicked delivery by Nuno Mendes.

Scotland looked crestfallen as it soaked up another late disappointment in a winless run of eight competitive matches. It has conceded in the 85th minute or later in five of its last six games in all competitions