Ronaldo scores again, Fernandes shines as Portugal comeback against Scotland

Cristiano Ronaldo continued to prove that he still belongs in the elites, as he scored in a second consecutive game to help Portugal beat Scotland and race to the top of their Nations League group standings.

The Scots raced into an early lead and came close to a famous victory but were denied by second-half strikes from Bruno Fernandes and his captain Ronaldo.

Scotland had a peppy start, and their efforts were rewarded inside seven minutes when Scott McTominay's powerful header redirected Kenny McLean's pinpoint cross into the next, continuing his incredible proficiency for Scotland. 

Portugal responded vigorously, with Rafael Leao causing chaos down the flanks. Although he rifled a shot into the side-netting, Leao continued to torment Scotland, forcing Angus Gunn into a sharp save before teeing up Diogo Jota, whose effort sailed over.

After the break, Martínez introduced Cristiano Ronaldo as he shuffled the pack, and Portugal resumed their dominance. Leao continued to be a menace to deal with down the left. This time, he picked out Fernandes on the edge of the box, and the midfielder drilled a precise effort into the bottom corner to restore parity. 

Portugal turned up the heat, with Diogo Dalot's introduction sparking a flurry of chances. Ronaldo, in a minute, saw two attempts to rattle the woodwork. Undeterred, Ronaldo pounced in the 88th minute, prodding home Nuno Mendes's cross for his 901st career goal. Portugal lost the remaining minutes to move to the top spot of their UEFA Nations League group.