Nations League: Ronaldo’s 901st Career Goal Secures Portugal Win Over Scotland

Portugal substitute Cristiano Ronaldo scored a late winner to help his team come from behind and secure a 2-1 victory over Scotland in the Nations League on Sunday. After Bruno Fernandes netted the equalizer, Ronaldo found the back of the net in the 88th minute, marking his 901st career goal.

Scotland initially appeared poised for their first victory over Portugal since 1980, taking an early lead when Scott McTominay powered in a header in the seventh minute. However, despite their strong efforts, they left empty-handed as the 39-year-old Ronaldo once again proved decisive for his country.

“The influence is always the same, whether he starts or comes off the bench,” said Bruno Fernandes, who was playing his 600th career match. “Everyone who came on made a difference. Cristiano scored his 901st goal today and now he’s aiming for a thousand, which is what he wants.”

With this victory, Portugal sits at the top of League A Group 1 with six points, following a previous win against Croatia, who are in second place with three points after a 1-0 victory over Poland on Sunday. Scotland has now suffered two defeats, both coming from late goals.

**McTominay Strikes Early**
Scotland entered the match still recovering from a 3-2 home loss to Poland, but their fans found reason to cheer early on as McTominay, a former Manchester United midfielder, headed in a brilliant cross from Kenny McLean in the seventh minute.

Portugal responded by dominating possession and attacking relentlessly, but Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn kept them at bay with a series of saves, including a remarkable stop on a low shot from Rafael Leao. Despite 15 goal attempts before halftime, the Portuguese struggled to find a way past Scotland’s defense.

In the 54th minute, Fernandes finally broke through with a well-struck shot, although Gunn likely should have saved it. Despite that setback, Scotland continued to hold their ground, and Gunn produced further heroics, denying Joao Felix twice and Ronaldo’s header, which struck the inside of the post.

However, Ronaldo ultimately stole the show with a simple tap-in from a well-placed cross by Nuno Mendes, securing the win for Portugal.

Scotland was left devastated by yet another late setback, extending their winless run to eight competitive matches. To add to their woes, they have conceded goals in the 85th minute or later in five of their last six games.

“Obviously, we’re disappointed — it felt for a long time like we might get something from the game,” Scotland manager Steve Clarke said. “The effort and quality the players showed meant they deserved more.”