TNT Sports
'An incredible player' - Roberto Martinez hails hero Cristiano Ronaldo after 901st goal earns victory over Scotland
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Published 08/09/2024 at 23:15 GMT+1
Portugal's talisman Cristiano Ronaldo scored an 88th-minute winner against Scotland in their Nations League match on Sunday. A 2-1 win came after the home side came back from a goal down following Scott McTominany's first-half opener for Steve Clarke's men. Speaking after the victory, Portugal manager Roberto Martinez explained he is attempting to manage Ronaldo's minutes on the pitch.
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Video credit: SNTV
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez praised Cristiano Ronaldo as “an incredible player” after his 88th-minute winner in a 2-1 Nations League victory over Scotland on Sunday night.
Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay scored for the away side after just seven minutes, and Steve Clarke’s side had acquitted themselves well for much of the match, but McTominay’s former Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes levelled in Lisbon on 54 minutes.
Ronaldo was introduced as a substitute, and scored his 901st career goal with two minutes of normal time remaining.
The 39-year-old now has 134 goals for the national team, and 213 caps for his country. For his current club, Al-Nassr, he has four goals in four appearances so far this season.
Speaking after his side’s dramatic victory, Martinez explained that, despite Ronaldo’s excellent form, his age means he can no longer start matches in quick succession.
He said: “Cristiano is in good form. He’s played three matches and scored with his club. We have to protect all the players.
“He can't play two consecutive matches of 90 minutes. He has to be there for the end of the match, not the start. I like his commitment.”
Martinez also denied that his side were too dependent on a player who is nearing 40, and who has recently acknowledged that retirement could be on the horizon.
Instead, he pointed out that Ronaldo’s talent is an asset to be utilised.
He added: “Dependent on Ronaldo? He’s an incredible player. It’s not dependence, he’s an asset.
“In front of goal, he’s crucial. His intelligence to open spaces is important. Speaking of dependence doesn’t make sense.”
With two wins from two, Portugal top their League A Group 1 table on six points.
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