Portugal boosted their chance of reaching next year's World Cup by beating Andorra on Saturday at Estadi Nacional in Andorra la Vella, according to Daily Mail. It was Cristiano Ronaldo that scored the opener in the sixty-third minute before Andre Silva doubled the lead in the eighty-sixth minute.
Cristiano Ronaldo's goal in the match was his 79th goal in his 144th appearances for Portugal. Andorra made little efforts in the encounter and was more defensive. At the other side, Portugal constantly held possession and attempted several goal-scoring chances.
With this victory, Portugal remains second in Group B, three points behind Switzerland, while Andorra is at the bottom of the group with just four points. Here are the three things observed in the match.
Fernando Santos' side played well at Andorra
Portugal maintained dominance throughout the encounter, creating goal bound chances through counter attacks, set pieces and operated through the flanks. However, they were unable to find the back of the net until substitute Cristiano Ronaldo broke the deadlocked in the sixty-third minute. Portugal players were confident and comfortable when in possession as Andorra's defense were barely not aggressive in tackling. Overall, Fernando Santos' men performances in the match was magnificent.
Portugal's chance of qualifying remains possible
Portugal's win against Andorra brightens their chance of reaching next summer's World Cup in Russia. However, they lie second in the group, three points behind Switzerland. Nevertheless, Portugal will qualify as group winners if they beat Switzerland on Tuesday, but if they fail to win the encounter, they will enter the playoffs, while Switzerland, who have nine victories from nine outings, need only a point to qualify.
Notwithstanding, Ronaldo led Portugal clearly have every chance of reaching the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Ronaldo was unstoppable
Cristiano Ronaldo's teamwork was apparently significant to Portugal's triumph. Immediately Ronaldo came off the bench; he began creating chances in front of goal. His performances immensely influenced Portugal's play and went on to notch the opener.
Ronaldo always inspires Portugal to victory. He is indeed a prominent figure in the team.
Group B upcoming matches
Portugal will return to home action when they face Switzerland on Tuesday, October 10. The same day, both minnows Latvia and Andorra lock horns at Skonto Stadium, Riga.
