Joao Felix Helps Portugal Beat Wales 1-0 in Nations League Opener

Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail

LISBON: Joao Felix scored the only goal as defending champions Portugal began their UEFA Nations League campaign with a 1-0 victory over Wales at home.

The result also gave new Portugal coach Jorge Jesus a winning start in his first match in charge of the national team.

Portugal controlled much of the match and created several scoring opportunities. The hosts recorded 19 shots compared with Wales’ four, but struggled to add to their lead.

Felix Breaks the Deadlock

Portugal took the lead in the 22nd minute when Felix fired a low effort from the edge of the penalty area.

The shot took a slight deflection off Wales captain Ben Davies before finding the far corner, leaving goalkeeper Danny Ward unable to keep it out.

Portugal continued to dominate possession after taking the lead but could not convert their additional opportunities.

“We controlled it and had a lot of chances but were not capable of scoring more,” Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes said after the match.

Ronaldo’s Goal Ruled Out

Cristiano Ronaldo remained a major focus of Portugal’s attack, with the 41-year-old forward receiving a strong response from the home crowd whenever he moved into dangerous areas.

Ronaldo came close to scoring on several occasions. He sent one effort into the side netting and later missed the target with a close-range volley.

After the hour mark, Ronaldo appeared to have scored when he put the ball into the net, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

He was substituted seven minutes later, after which Portugal’s attacking momentum dropped somewhat.

Wales Miss Late Opportunity

Wales had a chance to equalise late in the match after Brennan Johnson lifted the ball over Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa.

The effort struck the crossbar, leaving the visitors with another opportunity from the rebound.

Lewis Koumas and Dan James both attempted to reach the loose ball, but Koumas’ eventual shot was stopped by Portugal defender Ruben Dias on the goal line.

Wales midfielder Ethan Ampadu said his team were disappointed with the result, particularly after coming close to scoring near the end.

Portugal held on to secure all three points and begin their Nations League title defence with a victory.