Joao Felix shines as Ronaldo-less Portugal fail to conquer Croatia

Portugal, without Cristiano Ronaldo, failed to overcome Croatia in the Nations League despite Joao Felix putting in an impressive shift.

Joao Felix shines as Ronaldo-less Portugal fail to conquer Croatia

Both Portugal and Croatia qualified to the knockouts from their group (Via Eurosport)

Cristiano Ronaldo played no part in Portugal’s 1-1 draw against Croatia. The 39-year-old had already parted ways with the National team, his side having qualified for the knockout stages in the previous match. Led in attack by Joao Felix and Rafael Leao, Roberto Martinez‘s men failed to claim all three points in their final game in Group 1.

The game was frustrating for both sides as Portugal and Croatia failed to create goal scoring opportunities in the first half. However, persistent efforts from Joao Felix culminated in a goal for the visitors in the 33rd minute. The Chelsea forward was put through on goal by Vitinha, who perfectly finished his chance with a left-footed finish.

YouTube video

Being put at risk with relegation, Manchester City’s goal scoring defender Josko Gvardiol pulled one back for the hosts. After VAR ruled out a header from the 22-year-old, he went on to score ‘another’ which stood.

Kristijan Jakic‘s cross aimed at the far post was guided into the post to claim qualification for his side on the final matchday.

Poland star defends decision to click selfie with Ronaldo after 5-1 loss

Poland were thoroughly humiliated by Portugal in the Nations League as Cristiano Ronaldo took center stage. The forward scored a penalty while also converting a bicycle kick to set the stage on fire. However, despite the embarrassing score line for the visitors, Poland captain Piotr Zielinski opted to click a selfie with Ronaldo.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Piotr Zielinski
Piotr Zielinski was in line to take a selfie with Ronaldo after his side lost 5-1 to Portugal (Via X/@ESPNFC & IFTVofficial)

This resulted in harsh reactions on social media, with fans questioning Zielinski’s captaincy and commitment to his team. Many asked whether he deserved to be captain and humiliated himself by asking for a selfie.

However, fans also came forward to support the Pole, given the fact that a score line doesn’t determine the moment to click a picture. The captain responded to the questions surrounding the selfie in a presser afterwards.

I felt like taking a picture and I did. Why is it unbecoming? What should I do? Hide in a corner?

Piotr Zieliński told the press via TNT Sports

Poland were eventually eliminated from their Nations League group and were also relegated to League B after finishing last behind Scotland and Croatia.