Cristiano Ronaldo’s 100th and 101st international goals saw Portugal to a 2-0 UEFA Nations League win away at 10-man Sweden.
Ronaldo became just the second men’s player to a century of strikes for his country as he netted a stunning free-kick late in the first half in Stockholm on Tuesday.
That effort came after Gustav Svensson was sent off for the home side, who never threatened to rescue a result, with Ronaldo instead adding another wonderful goal after the break.
Having also thrashed Croatia last week, Portugal – winners of the inaugural Nations League – top Group A3 just ahead of world champions France through two matches.
What does it mean? Defending champions off to a flier
Portugal were aided by the red card here, but the defending Nations League champions are quickly making their mark in this competition once again.
They have two wins from two and, even with France still to play home and away, they show no signs of slowing – nor does their 35-year-old goalscorer…
Ronaldo record in sight
Having sat out of the Croatia game, meaning his tally of 99 goals had not improved since November 2019, Ronaldo was evidently determined to get on the scoresheet.
Olsen twice got the better of the Juventus talisman, but a pair of stunning strikes were fully deserved and he can now look towards the global record of 109 international goals, held by Iran great Ali Daei.
What’s next?
A busy October sees Portugal face Spain in a friendly before a Nations League double-header against France and Sweden again. The Swedes face Russia and Croatia before that return fixture.
