Portugal Dominates Sweden Without Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo was given a rest by Roberto Martinez, yet Portugal effortlessly secured a victory in Guimaraes.

Roberto Martinez's Portugal triumphed over Sweden 5-2 in a friendly match leading up to the upcoming European Championships, even without their star striker Cristiano Ronaldo, who was rested by Martinez.

The former Real Madrid and Manchester United striker, aged 39, watched as his team secured an effortless victory in Guimaraes.

Goals from Rafael Leao, Matheus Nunes, and Bruno Fernandes in the first half showcased Portugal's dominance, with Bruma and Goncalo Ramos further extending the lead after halftime.

Despite goals from Sweden's Viktor Gyokeres and Gustaf Nilsson, the night belonged to the hosts.

"I really liked the commitment and very good spirit," said Martinez, who has 11 wins from 11 matches at the helm.

However the Spanish coach was not impressed with conceding twice.

"It's a friendly, but I didn't like giving two goals away in the way we did," he added.

Sweden, who failed to reach Euro 2024, were largely woeful in new coach Jon Dahl Tomasson's first match in charge the former Denmark international became the country's first foreign-born coach when he was appointed in February.

Euro 2016 champions Portugal showed why they are among the favourites again this year.

AC Milan winger Leao scored the opening goal by smashing it into the top corner after Bernardo Silva hit the post.

Manchester City midfielder Nunes swiftly netted the second goal, skillfully breaching the defense and slotting it in at the near post.

Nelson Semedo set up the third goal by serving a perfect ball for Bruno Fernandes to convert from close range, marking his 20th international goal.

The Manchester United playmaker then turned provider for the fourth goal, assisting Bruma to score.

Although Gyokeres, the top scorer in Portugal with Sporting Lisbon, pulled one back for Sweden, Goncalo Ramos promptly capitalized on a counter-attack for Portugal.

Debutant Jota Silva missed a chance to score the sixth goal in his home stadium as Sweden goalkeeper Robin Olsen made a crucial save from close range.

Sweden pulled one back in stoppage time with towering striker Nilsson heading home Dejan Kulusevski's cross.

Portugal, who won all 10 of their qualifying matches for Euro 2024, face Slovenia in another friendly on Tuesday.

"I'll give everything to get a place on the final list," said Wolves defender Semedo, who impressed.

"It was a great game from us, we managed to score five, but there are things to improve because we let in two.

We have to improve things in terms of control, controlling the ball and the game more.

Source: ndtv