Euro 2016, where outsiders Iceland were looking to enjoy their debut on the big-stage as they faced Group F favourites Portugal on Tuesday. Cristiano Ronaldo was making his 127th appearance for the Portuguese to equal Luis Figo's national record, but the Real Madrid superstar would have little cause to celebrate after a frustrating performance on the pitch.
Cristiano Ronaldo (L) of Portugal competes during the Euro 2016 Group F soccer match between Portugal and Iceland in Saint-Etienne, France, June 14, 2016. [Xinhua]? |
Portugal are dominant in the beginning as exepected with 67-percent possession in the first half.
They have a golden opportunity in the 21st minute when Ronaldo's cross finds Nani whose header is blocked miraculously by Hannes Halldorsson.
Portugal finally make their dominance count 10 minutes later. A give-and-go between Vieirinha and Andre Gomes on the right leaves Nani with a simple tap in from seven meters. 1-nil, Portugal.
Roared on by their fans, Iceland equalize out of the blue in the 50th minute. Birkir Bjarnason sweeps in a teasing Johann Gudmundsson pass to make it 1-1 as Iceland score their first goal ever at the Euros.
It seems to take the wind out of Portugal's sails, with Ronaldo looking short of pace. 1-1 is the final score and Portugal are furious with only 1 point while Iceland fans look as if they won the title.