Portugal secures place in Round of 16, thanks to Fernandes, with win over Uruguay

LUSAIL, Qatar (AP) — Cristiano Ronaldo wheeled away in celebration, performing as if he had scored yet one more purpose on the World Cup.

Not this time.

Instead, it was Bruno Fernandes finally credited with the purpose that arrange Portugal’s 2-0 win over Uruguay on Monday, advancing the group into the final 16.

Fernandes curled in a cross from the left that hardly went over the pinnacle of the leaping Ronaldo and bounced into the far nook of the online within the 54th minute to offer Portugal a 1-0 lead.

A grinning Ronaldo threw his arms within the air, suggesting he bought the ultimate contact, and was embracing Fernandes as a number of close-up replays had been being proven on the massive screens in Lusail Stadium.

The purpose wound up being awarded to Fernandes, who added a second from the penalty spot in stoppage time after a handball by Jose Maria Gimenez.

Fernandes was denied a hat trick with just about the final kick of the sport, his shot from outdoors the realm hitting the put up and bouncing large.

Portugal, which opened with a 3-2 win over Ghana, grew to become the third group to succeed in the final 16 after France and Brazil.

Uruguay has one level from two matches and must beat Ghana on Friday to face an opportunity of advancing.

PEPE’S FEAT

Portugal defender Pepe grew to become the second oldest outfield participant to function at a World Cup, on the age of 39. The oldest is Roger Milla, who was 42 when he performed for Cameroon on the 1994 match.

MENDES INJURED

Portugal left again Nuno Mendes dropped to the bottom within the fortieth minute and was quickly in tears after sustaining a match-ending harm. He was capable of stroll off the sector unassisted. Portugal’s different left again is Raphael Guerreiro.