Cristiano Ronaldo Named in Portugal World Cup Squad; Renato Sanches Misses out
May 15, 2018
Portugal's midfielder Renato Sanches walks towards Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo as he sits on the pitch during the Euro 2016 final football match between France and Portugal at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, north of Paris, on July 10, 2016. / AFP / FRANCK FIFE (Photo credit should read FRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images)
Cristiano Ronaldo will lead Portugal's charge at the FIFA World Cup this summer having been named in the squad for the Russia showpiece, but there's no place for Renato Sanches in the 35-man preliminary group.
BeIN Sports' Eric Krakauer provided the squad chosen by manager Fernando Santos:
According to Goal, the manager could trim down the group to a final 23 in the coming days.
Ronaldo will skipper the side again, as they go in pursuit of more glory. Portugal are the reigning European champions, so they will have high hopes of going all the way this summer.
At that competition Sanches also shone and was recognised as the best young player at Euro 2016. However, following a switch to Bayern Munich after the tournament, his stock has dropped dramatically.
BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND - MAY 05: Renato Sanches of Swansea City arrives at Vitality Stadium prior to kick off of the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Swansea City at Vitality Stadium on May 5, 2018 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Athena P
The Portugal starlet spent the 2017-18 campaign on loan at Swansea City. He's only made nine Premier League starts for the Welsh side in a season that saw them relegated.
As noted by FourFourTwo, it's not gone well for the former Benfica man in south Wales:
Amid injury and poor form, Sanches has managed only 12 league appearances in a spell that is best remembered for the 20-year-old passing the ball to an advertising hoarding during a 1-0 defeat at Chelsea. pic.twitter.com/SzzMogmbiB
With that in mind, it's no surprise to see Sanches miss out, despite having been a key member of the XI as an 18-year-old two years ago.
Ronaldo will play an important role again, as the 33-year-old is enjoying yet another memorable season for Real Madrid. Despite a slow start to the campaign, he's netted 42 goals in all competitions.
FUNCHAL, PORTUGAL - MARCH 28: Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo with European CUP trophy during the match between Portugal v Sweden - International Friendly at Estadio dos Barreiros on March 28, 2017 in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodr
The Portugal skipper continues to perform on the biggest stages and has helped Madrid into their fourth UEFA Champions League final in the space of five years.
Ronaldo's compatriot and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho believes the Los Blancos star is capable of inspiring the country to victory again, per Goal UK:
Elsewhere in the squad there is plenty of attacking talent, including veteran winger Ricardo Quaresma, who has enjoyed a fine season with Besiktas.
There are a number of exciting young players, too. Bernardo Silva will be key having helped Manchester City to the Premier League title, while Sporting CP's Gelson Martins provides thrust from the flanks. After inspiring Wolverhampton Wanderers to promotion to the Premier League, Ruben Neves is also one to watch in midfield.
There's also experience for Santos to tap into, with Euro 2016 stalwarts Rui Patricio, Pepe, Jose Fonte and William Carvalho called up.
Netherlands Shock Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal 3-0 in International Friendly
Mar 26, 2018
(L-R) Memphis Depay of Holland, Ryan Babel of Holland during the International friendly match match between Portugal and The Netherlands at Stade de Genève on March 26, 2018 in Geneva, Switzerland(Photo by VI Images via Getty Images)
The Netherlands defeated Portugal in an international friendly on Monday night, as the Dutch won 3-0 in Geneva, Switzerland.
Memphis Depay gave the Oranje a surprise lead after 11 minutes, and the advantage was doubled as Ryan Babel found the back of the net in the 32nd minute.
The Euro 2016 champions were stunned as Virgil van Dijk's half-volley found the bottom corner two minutes into first-half injury time, giving the Dutch a 3-0 lead at the break.
Portugal failed to make an impression in the second period, with Cristiano Ronaldo substituted midway through the half, and the Netherlands were comfortable winners in the end.
(L-R) Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal, Nathan Ake of Holland during the International friendly match match between Portugal and The Netherlands at Stade de Genève on March 26, 2018 in Geneva, Switzerland(Photo by VI Images via Getty Images)
Ronaldo led the attack for Portugal, with Andre Gomes and Ricardo Quaresma supporting in midfield.
The Dutch set up with a firm core in a 5-3-2, allowing Depay and Babel plenty of freedom to stream forward as opportunity presented itself.
Portugal dominated the ball in the early stages but failed to produce a threat as they quickly fell behind.
Depay gave the Netherlands an early lead, linking with Donny van de Beek to clinical effect.
Portugal attempted a swift comeback, with Ronaldo tumbling in the box as he searched for a penalty, and when the incident was ignored, the Real Madrid icon showed his displeasure.
Moments later, it was 2-0 to the Netherlands as Babel's header hit the back of the net at pace.
GENEVE, SWITZERLAND - MARCH 26: (L-R) Manuel Fernandes of Portugal, Ryan Babel of Holland during the International Friendly match between Portugal v Holland at the Stade de Geneve on March 26, 2018 in Geneve Switzerland (Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccra
The Portuguese were clearly despondent as their opponents were far from dangerous, but worse was yet to come.
Poor marking saw the Dutch again strike, and Liverpool centre-back Van Dijk showed his prowess with a controlled finish.
The 26-year-old smashed his shot into the bottom corner with style, and the half-time lead was a shock to the system.
The Netherlands have failed to display a clinical edge in recent months after missing out on qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, but the first shoots of recovery were present in the first half.
Associated Press writer Graham Dunbar was impressed with the play on offer:
Well, well. Dutch now 3-0 up against Portugal as half time whistle blows in Geneva. Dutch central defenders have been creative like it's the 1970s.
Portugal failed to put their foot on the gas in the second half and were down to 10 men as Joao Cancelo was shown a red card for a late tackle.
The 23-year-old was dismissed in the 61st minute for a second bookable offence, as his side appeared on their knees.
Ronaldo was taken off moments later as Portugal attempted to give minutes to their squad, with the Dutch in firm control of the contest.
The match petered out as the Portuguese accepted defeat, and the Dutch were rewarded with a much-needed victory against a major nation.
Portugal will need to play much better than this in the weeks ahead, and the European Championship holders cannot simply rely on Ronaldo to take them through to the knockout stages in Russia.
Cristiano Ronaldo Leads Portugal Past Egypt in International Friendly Comeback
Mar 23, 2018
ZURICH, SWITZERLAND - MARCH 23: (L-R) Joao Moutinho of Portugal, Abdallah Said of Egypt during the International Friendly match between Egypt v Portugal at the Letzigrund Stadium on March 23, 2018 in Zurich Switzerland (Photo by Erwin Spek/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Egypt appeared on their way to an international friendly win against Portugal on Friday, but Cristiano Ronaldo scored two late goals in injury time to complete an unlikely comeback.
Mohamed Salah finished off a nice passing move in the second half, giving his side the lead against the run of play. The match in Zurich appeared destined to end with that score, but Ronaldo had other ideas, guiding home two headers deep in injury time.
Ronaldo could have opened the scoring after just 30 seconds, firing a shot over, while Abdallah El Said fared slightly better but placed his effort far too close to Beto.
The frantic pace of the match continued early on, with both teams determined to put on a show. Portugal held the bulk of the possession, and that didn't sit well with the Egyptians, who resorted to several harsh fouls to try and disrupt their flow.
Ronaldo had a shot blocked off the line after one of those fouls led to a free-kick, and he couldn't beat the wall from a more promising position.
Team-mate Rolando thought he had broken the deadlock just before half-time after a flick-on from Andre Silva set him up for a header, but after a short conversation between officials, the goal was ruled out for offside. Per football writer Tom Kundert, it was the right decision:
Scrub that. Ruled out for offside. Referee checked with VAR. Bernardo cross, André Silva flick-on, Rolando heads in but he was just offside.
Portugal remained the better team after the break, but chances were few. When their opponents did get a good look on goal, they took the lead against the run of play.
Inevitably, it was Salah who got the goal, with El Said setting him up. Kundert enjoyed the passing move:
GOAL! Egypt! Salah! Great move by Egyptians, quick passing creates space for Salah, who finishes beautifully first time, low and hard right into the corner from the edge of the box. Portugal 0-1 Egypt, 57'
Ronaldo tried to respond with a shot from a tight angle that was kept out before a host of substitutions took the momentum out of the match.
Ricardo Quaresma couldn't finish off a great attacking move, but late drama turned the match on its head in injury time.
First, Ronaldo beat Beto from close range with a header in what appeared to be the final action in the match. The official allowed play to carry on, however, even though the added time had passed, and when another free-kick went Portugal's way, the Real Madrid man struck again.
Per Indy Football, he added to his already impressive tally:
Cristiano Ronaldo has now scored 81 goals in 148 appearances for Portugal.
Egypt were furious play continued, and VAR further threw things into chaos, but the goal stood as Portugal grabbed the win.
Portugal Earn 2018 World Cup Bid with 2-0 Win over Switzerland in Qualifier
Oct 10, 2017
LISBON, PORTUGAL - OCTOBER 10: Portugal player celebrates after scores the second goal against Switzerland during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between Portugal and Switzerland at the Luz Stadium on October 10, 2017 in Lisbon, Lisboa. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)
Soccer fans around the globe can breathe easy—the 2018 World Cup in Russia won't be without arguably the game's greatest player, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo and Portugal clinched an automatic berth in next year's World Cup with a 2-0 win over Switzerland on Tuesday. Johan Djourou's own goal late in the first half and Andre Silva's goal early in the second booked Portugal's ticket to Russia.
Switzerland, meanwhile, still have an opportunity to reach the World Cup, though they'll the need to go through Europe's playoff round to secure a berth.
Ronaldo himself was largely quiet in the win, with his best chance coming late in the match on a breakaway opportunity that Swiss goalkeeperYannSommersmothered before Ronaldo could pull the trigger on his shot.
Instead, Portugal called upon their supporting cast to win the day—and a bit of luck as well.
The first goal was largely the result of Eliseu's tantalizing cross into the box that perfectly landed betweenSommerand the Swiss defense. Djourou's sliding attempt to clear the ball out of danger instead resulted in the Swiss defender redirecting the ball into the back of the net.
Portugal didn't rely on luck for the game's second tally, however. Joao Moutinhostarted the move with a lovely through ball to Bernardo Silva down the right side of the box. His low cross found Andre Silva, who gathered the ball before slotting home the game's second goal.
The Silva pairing has proved to be crucial for the Portuguese:
Bernardo Silva on another plane here. Another sparkling jewel in the City attack. Not fair, really
The result left Portugal and Switzerland tied atop Group B at 27 points. Portugal's advantage in goal differential served as the tiebreaker, however, securing their automatic berth to next year's World Cup.
And so Ronaldo is in. That's good for the sport, as football pundit GaryLinekernoted, especially if another superstar doesn't reach Russia:
Great to see Portugal qualify. The World Cup needs its superstars. Hopefully tonight, Messi will join @Cristiano.
Switzerland will now go into the playoff round alongside Italy, Croatia, Northern Ireland, Sweden, Denmark, the Republic of Ireland and Greece. Those teams will be re-seeded when FIFA's rankings are released later in October, with the top four seeds placed in Pot 1 and the next four placed in Pot 2. Each of the fourmatchupswill have a team from Pot 1 facing a team from Pot 2.
The four winners of those home-and-away series, which will be played in November, advance to Russia.
Portugal vs. Switzerland: World Cup 2018 Qualifying Live Stream, Preview
Oct 10, 2017
ANDORRA LA VELLA, ANDORRA - OCTOBER 07: Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal celebrates after scoring the opening goal past the goalkeeper Josep Gomes of Andorraduring the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between Andorra and Portugal at the Estadi Nacional on October 7, 2017 in Andorra la Vella, Andorra. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Group B is set for a thrilling climax on Tuesday as leaders Switzerland head to Lisbon to take on second-placed Portugal, with the group winner set to be decided.
The hosts go into the game three points behind Switzerland but can snatch top spot with a win as they have a better goal difference.
The visitors, meanwhile, need just a point to confirm automatic qualification to FIFA World Cup 2018 in Russia. The team finishing in second place is assured a play-off place.
Portugal made hard work of minnows Andorra last time out, needing Cristiano Ronaldo to come off the bench and open the scoring.
He then set up Andre Silva for the second to keep their hopes alive with a 2-0 win.
Ronaldo is one booking away from a suspension, which is possibly the reason why he was left on the bench against Andorra, and he should start on Tuesday.
The Real Madrid star's record in qualifying shows how vital he is to Portugal's hopes of success, as highlighted by Squawka:
Cristiano Ronaldo has now been involved in 19 goals in 13 matches for Portugal in World Cup qualifying.
The reigning European champions are also on a strong run of form. They have won eight straight games since losing 2-0 to Switzerland in Basel, in September 2016, via Squawka:
Portugal have now won 8 consecutive World Cup qualifiers.
However, they will need to improve from the Andorra game, where they were wasteful in front of goal and found it tough breaking down a defence that, prior to the game, had conceded 17 goals.
Switzerland will also prove difficult opponents—they are yet to drop even a point in qualifying so far, having won all nine matches.
The Swiss also have real quality and experience within their team, with players such as Stephan Lichtsteiner, Granit Xhaka and Xherdan Shaqiri.
That experience will prove important in what should be a lively atmosphere in Lisbon, where the hosts must go for the win.
Fernando Santos' side will have to attack the visitors, who may well sit back and look to hit them on the break.
If Switzerland can handle Ronaldo, they may well be able to maintain their flawless record, but it promises to be some game on Tuesday with two in-form teams chasing automatic qualification.
Cristiano Ronaldo Fires Portugal Past Andorra in World Cup 2018 Qualifying
Oct 7, 2017
ANDORRA LA VELLA, ANDORRA - OCTOBER 07: Cristiano Ronaldo (R) of Portugal celebrates with his team mate Andre Silva after scoring the opening goal past the goalkeeper Josep Gomes of Andorraduring the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between Andorra and Portugal at the Estadi Nacional on October 7, 2017 in Andorra la Vella, Andorra. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Cristiano Ronaldo rose from the bench to keep Portugal's hopes of automatic qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup alive on Saturday, netting the opening goal in his country's crucial 2-0 win in Andorra.
Portugal struggled to open up the home side in the first period, as the minnows dug in and defended gamely in front of their supporters.
It meant Ronaldo, who began the match as a substitute, was called on at half-time. He found a breakthrough in the 63rd minute, controlling and finishing superbly inside the area. With the clock ticking down, Andre Silva added some gloss to the scoreline with a second.
The win means Portugal stay three points behind Switzerland, who beat Hungary 5-2 on the night, in the race to top Group B. The two sides meet on Tuesday in Lisbon in the final qualification match, with a Selecao victory ensuring automatic qualification since they would win the tiebreaker on goal difference.
With a number of key players one booking away from a suspension for that potential decider, Portugal boss Fernando Santos made some big selection decisions.
Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo (R) and Portugal's head coach Fernando Santos (L) look on during the FIFA World Cup 2018 football qualifier between Andorra and Portugal at the Municipal Stadium in Andorra la Vella, on October 7, 2017.
/ AFP PHOTO /
Ronaldo was one of those at risk and was subsequently named as a substitute; Cedric Soares, Jose Fonte and Andre Gomes were also benched for that reason.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, there was a lack of rhythm in Portugal's play early on. They found passing patterns and penetrative play hard to put together. As noted by journalist Jan Hagen, while the European champions dominated the ball, there was little incision:
Portugal have kept 85% of the possession during the opening 18 minutes, but they’ve to create any real trouble for Andorra’s defense.
Andorra did start to show some signs of raggedness at the end of a half in which they'd otherwise been solid. Ricardo Quaresma was at the heart of most of Portugal's good work; he should have scored when free at the back post, but he was only able to plant a header wide.
Andre Silva also should have done more when the ball dropped to him in the penalty area, though he could only fire over. Having ventured forward, Pepe saw a thunderous 20-yard shot stopped by Josep Gomes before the break too.
As stated by journalist Tom Kundert at the interval, despite having less quality than the visitors, the hosts were able to stay compact and frustrate:
Portugal finding it difficult to make chances vs. well-organised Andorra. Can understand why they've only conceded 3 goals in 4 home games.
With Switzerland on course for victory, Santos didn't waste much time summoning the team's talisman and captain at the break—Ronaldo was on for the start of the second half.
The introduction didn't have the instant impact Santos would have been hoping for, as Andorra continued to defend with assurance. But the benefit of having a player like Ronaldo on the pitch is that one lapse in focus is all that's needed for him to make a difference.
ANDORRA LA VELLA, ANDORRA - OCTOBER 07: Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal scores the opening goal past the goalkeeper Josep Gomes of Andorraduring the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between Andorra and Portugal at the Estadi Nacional on October 7, 2017 in And
Just after the hour mark, he did, controlling a loose ball on his thigh before prodding home inside the area. As noted by Squawka Football, Ronaldo is enjoying quite the qualifying campaign:
Only two players in history have scored 15 goals in a single European qualifying campaign.
Per Hagen, there was extra significance to this goal:
On the date, 15 years after scoring his first ever professional goal, Cristiano Ronaldo scores his 613th(79th for Portugal) career goal. REI pic.twitter.com/HDGOrM4ZEw
The goal sapped any tension from the Portugal players, and they started to operate with a little more freedom. Openings came with increasing regularity, and Gomes was on hand to claw away a fine effort from Bernardo Silva with 17 minutes remaining.
Andre Silva squandered a brilliant opportunity to make the match safe as the clock ticked down when he failed to capitalise on fine work from Bernardo Silva and Ronaldo. But the AC Milan striker did eventually get his name on the scoresheet four minutes from time to wrap this one up after Ronaldo's deep cross was headed into his path by Danilo Pereira.
It made the game safe for Portugal and ensured Tuesday's showdown with Switzerland in the capital will be a thriller.
Portugal Defeat Hungary 1-0 in 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier
Sep 3, 2017
Portugal's André Silva (C) celebrates scoring with teammates including captain Cristiano Ronaldo (R) and João Mário (L) during the FIFA World Cup 2018 qualification football match between Hungary and Portugal at The Grupama Arena in Budapest on September 3, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / ATTILA KISBENEDEK (Photo credit should read ATTILA KISBENEDEK/AFP/Getty Images)
Portugal beat Hungary 1-0 in UEFA Group B of FIFA World Cup qualifying on Sunday, keeping the European champions within striking distance of leaders Switzerland.
Andre Silva's header after 48 minutes killed the match, with the hosts unable to gain a foothold in proceedings.
Cristiano Ronaldo provided the assist for Silva's goal, expertly finding the striker with a lofted cross shortly after half-time.
Portugal's Cedric (L) fights for the ball with Hungary's captain Balazs Dzsudzsak (R) during the FIFA World Cup 2018 qualification football match between Hungary and Portugal at The Grupama Arena in Budapest on September 3, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / ATTILA KI
Portugal gave a start to the experienced Fabio Coentrao, as Danilo Pereira and Gelson Martins were drafted in by coach Fernando Santos.
The suspension of Barnabas Bese forced Hungary into changes, and they chose to shuffle the pack against their illustrious visitors.
Portugal were imposing from the opening moments, and Ronaldo meant business as he fired from range with venom.
The Real Madrid icon watched as his shot was tipped over the crossbar by goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi.
Portugal's Bruno Alves (C) vies with Hungary's Tamas Priskin (R) during the FIFA World Cup 2018 qualification football match between Hungary and Portugal in Budapest on September 3, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / ATTILA KISBENEDEK (Photo credit should read AT
Coentrao was forced out of the game midway through the first half, clearly in discomfort as he received treatment for injury.
The hosts were reduced to 10 men as Tamas Priskin was shown a straight red card for an elbow on Pepe on the half-hour mark, with the crowd objecting to the referee's decision.
Portugal attempted to turn the screw in the minutes before half-time, but they became less affective as they searched for the opener.
Hungary opted to give a physical display against a talented Portugal side, and their roughhouse tactics kept the game goalless at half-time.
Squawka News highlighted Pepe's injury after feeling the impact of Priskin's blatant elbow:
Hungary 0-0 Portugal HT:
Tamas Priskin's red card for an elbow on Pepe the talking point of the game so far. pic.twitter.com/5lic09CmXX
There was joy for the visitors just three minutes after the restart as Silva headed home Ronaldo's cross.
Silva arrived at the far post, with Ronaldo lofting the ball out of reach of Gulacsi, allowing the AC Milan striker the chance to bundle his effort home.
The goal settled Portugal, and Ronaldo's intimidation was clear as Hungary leaned against the ropes.
Portugal played at walking pace in the final 20 minutes, attempting to force the hosts to come out and expose the territory behind them.
However, Hungary refused to budge, and a stalemate in the action took over the match.
Football writer Tom Kundert highlighted Portugal's superiority:
Portugal held possession for a good 2 minutes there, before it reached Eliseu. Haja paciência...
Ronaldo's shot deflected over the bar in the final minutes, but the game was already dead as a spectacle, with Hungary folding with a whimper.
The victory was Portugal's seventh in qualifying, but they remain in the shadow of group leaders Switzerland.
Cristiano Ronaldo Breaks Pele Record with Hat-Trick in Portugal Win
Aug 31, 2017
Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo (C) kicks the ball to score the opening goal during the WC2018 qualifying football match Portugal vs Faroe Islands at the Bessa stadium in Porto on August 31, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / FRANCISCO LEONG (Photo credit should read FRANCISCO LEONG/AFP/Getty Images)
Cristiano Ronaldo scored his fifth international hat-trick as Portugal flew to a 5-1 victory over the Faroe Islands on Thursday to stay second in 2018 World Cup qualifying Group B.
William Carvalho and substitute Nelson Oliveira each scored to complement Ronaldo's match-winning performance, which saw him move ahead of Pele, one of world football's all-time legends:
Ronaldo opened the scoring with a sublime scissor-kick before adding a second from the penalty spot, although Rogvi Baldvinsson gave Portugal a scare when he halved the deficit with a close-range volley.
Group B leaders Switzerland were on course to beat Andorraand maintain a three-point cushion at the head of the pool, with much anticipation building toward their clash against second-placed Portugal on October 10.
As if the Faroe Islands weren't already aware of the task ahead of them, their challenge became all the more difficult after they leaked an early opener thanks to a piece of signature Ronaldo brilliance.
Manchester City winger Bernardo Silva squirmed his way to the goal line near the right corner before pulling a cross back into the box, and the visitors were helpless but to watch Ronaldo's acrobatic scissor-kick knock them back.
Ronaldo, who is currently serving a domestic suspension at Real Madrid following the red card he picked up during the Spanish Super Cup, continued his fine run of scoring form with the opener, per ESPN Stats & Info:
Cristiano Ronaldo opens up the scoring for Portugal with his 12th WCQ goal this cycle. He has 15 goals in his last 11 matches for Portugal.
Faroe Islands midfielder Roaldur Jakobsen handed the hosts their chance at a second when he rushed into a tackle attempt inside his own area and was adjudged to have fouled his target in the process, and rightly so.
Ronaldo again stepped up to convert from 12 yards and sent his shot in the right of the opposition goal to put himself on a hat-trick within half an hour.
But it wasn't long before the Faroe Islands cut the deficit and found their route into the fixture thanks to some superb opportunism from Baldvinsson in the Portuguese box.
Full-back Jonas Tor Naes sent in a long throw-in from the right, and Baldvinsson was on hand to smash home a neat volley after Portugal centre-back Jose Fonte got a flick on close to goal. Portuguese football writer Jan Hagen highlighted the sense of competition that strike brought back to the game heading in at the break:
HT Portugal 2-1 The Faroe Islands. Ronaldo's double see Portugal ahead, but Baldvinsson's late goal leaves some excitement for the 2nd half. pic.twitter.com/6jEzkwAKLg
AC Milan striker Andre Silva saw the best of Portugal's scoring chances after the restart and came close to netting on several occasions before midfield team-mate Carvalho showed him up by grabbing the home side's third.
The Sporting Lisbon anchor showed good enthusiasm to get forward and was on hand to nod in a Ronaldo cut-back with relative ease after 58 minutes.
Just as was the case in the first half, Portugal hit their guests again in quick succession, and it was again Ronaldo who illustrated the gulf between him and his opponents with a jinking run in front of goal.
A few dummies and pivots in the box saw Real's star man open up space to side-foot in a cool finish, and while it may have marked just his fifth treble for Portugal, Sky Sports Statto noted his remarkable career hat-trick tally:
Cristiano Ronaldo has scored the 48th hat-trick of his senior career: 42 - Real Madrid 5 - Portugal 1 - Man Utd pic.twitter.com/4N5gKOWcjo
Norwich City striker Nelson Oliveira came on late and almost immediately sent his message to manager Fernando Santos, tapping in an easy finish following some clumsy defensive work from the Faroe Islands.
Another Portuguese win and another result in which Ronaldo proved himself still critical to their cause, grabbing a hat-trick and assisting both his side's other goals to show any club woes won't affect international form.
Portugal vs. Faroe Islands: World Cup 2018 Qualifying Live Stream, Preview
Aug 31, 2017
KAZAN, RUSSIA - JUNE 28: Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal looks on during the FIFA Confederations Cup Russia 2017 Semi-Final match between Portugal and Chile at Kazan Arena on June 28, 2017 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
Portugal host Faroe Islands at the Estadio Do Bessa in Porto on Thursday, in a Group B qualifier for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. The champions of UEFA Euro 2016 will be expected to earn a comfortable win against a side they've already beaten handily during this qualification campaign.
Portugal's chances of producing a heavy win are boosted by having talisman Cristiano Ronaldo available to lead the line. The 32-year-old has been serving a suspension with Real Madrid at club level, but will get the chance to vent his frustrations for his country.
Before a preview, here are the schedule and viewing details, including live-streaming information:
Ronaldo was on the scoresheet when Portugal trounced Faroe Islands 6-0 back in October. He was aided by then-Porto striker Andre Silva, who fired in a hat-trick.
TOPSHOT - Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo (R) reacts next to Portugal's forward Andre Silva during the 2017 Confederations Cup group A football match between Portugal and Mexico at the Kazan Arena in Kazan on June 18, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / Yuri CORTEZ
Silva, who joined Serie A side AC Milan earlier this summer, is backing Ronaldo to "shut many of the mouths" of his detractors, per ESPN FC's Dermot Corrigan. Accusations of tax fraud, as well as being red-carded for pushing an official during the Spanish Super Cup win over bitter rivals Barcelona, have blighted Ronaldo's start to the season at club level.
However, a fully focused Ronaldo, free from the distractions of his situation at Real, should worry Faroe Islands manager Lars Olsen. Worse still, Ronaldo and Silva are far from the only players Olsen must be concerned with.
Portugal can also turn loose wing wizard Gelson Martins, along with playmakers Joao Moutinho and Bernardo Silva. The latter is still finding his feet at new club Manchester City, but he has much technical quality on the ball and will ensure the supply line to Ronaldo remains consistent.
Silva is the creative fulcrum of Portugal's national squad.
There is just too much talent in the Portugal ranks to think anything but a goal fest is inevitable for manager Fernando Santos' team.
Despite their talent, Santos' men still trail leaders Switzerland by three points in the group. Yet an in-form Ronaldo against overmatched opposition will help Portugal stake their claim as eventual group winners.
Prediction: Portugal 7-0 Faroe Islands
Ranking Cristiano Ronaldo's 10 Best Portugal Goals
Aug 20, 2017
KAZAN, RUSSIA - JUNE 28: Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal looks on during the FIFA Confederations Cup Russia 2017 Semi-Final match between Portugal and Chile at Kazan Arena on June 28, 2017 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images)
On this day in 2003, Cristiano Ronaldo made his international debut for Portugal, a fleet-footed winger who had recently swapped Sporting CP for Manchester United.
Little more than a decade later, he had become the national team's all-time leading goalscorer, surpassing the likes of Luis Figo, Eusebio and, finally, Pauleta on the way. His current tally stands at a whopping 74 international goals from just shy of 150 caps, comfortably the highest scorer still active at that level and joint seventh of all time.
Level with Sandor Kocsis, two behind Pele, nine behind Ferenc Puskas and a full 34 behind the all-time highest scorer, Iran's Ali Daei, Ronaldo is certainly in exalted company, and few would bet against him going on to rise far higher in the charts before he calls time on his international career.
For such a regular scorer of goals, selecting his 10 finest isn't an easy task, but that's what we've set out to do using such criteria as importance of strike and memorability, though more heavily weighted, of course, is the aesthetic value of the goal.
10. Hungary
LISBON, PORTUGAL - MARCH 25: Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates scoring Portugal's third goal during the match between Portugal and Hungary for FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier at Estadio da Luz on March 25, 2017 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by
A recent goal first up, with Ronaldo proving now, even after a switch for club and country to a more centre-forward role than his traditional wide-forward position, that he can still have a big influence outside the penalty area.
The World Cup qualifier against Hungary saw Ronaldo net twice, the first of which was a tremendous low strike with his left foot into the bottom corner after good linkup play and control with the underside of his boot.
He hit a brace on the day back in March, helping Portugal to a 3-0 victory and three points on the road to qualification. His nation currently sit in second in Group B, three points behind Switzerland but well clear of Hungary themselves, who sit in third.
9. Wales
Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo (3L) scores the opening goal past Wales' goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey (R) during the Euro 2016 semi-final football match between Portugal and Wales at the Parc Olympique Lyonnais stadium in Décines-Charpieu, near Lyon, o
Ask any fan to name the archetypal Ronaldo goal and they'll likely give you one of three answers: cutting in and shooting on his right foot, racing into the six-yard box to get on the end of a cut-back, or a powerful header.
In Euro 2016, it was the latter that Ronaldo came up with, towering above the Wales defence off a corner and sending a bullet header past the goalkeeper to help Portugal win their semi-final tie, moving on to the final itself.
Of course, they'd beat France after extra time in the final, with Ronaldo by then watching on from the sidelines, injured early on—but this effort helped get them there.
8. Bosnia
Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring a gaol against Bosnia Herzgovina during the second leg of their Euro 2012 play-off football match at Luz Stadium in Lisbon on November 15, 2011. Portugal won 6-2 and qualified for the Euro 2012
Portugal needed a play-off to reach Euro 2012, and they faced Bosnia-Herzegovina to get there. What might have been a tight tie, 0-0 after the first leg, ended up 6-2 to Portugal in the second, thanks to a brace from Ronaldo including one in the opening minutes.
His free-kick from at least 35 yards was superbly struck, dipping fiercely over the wall and into the bottom corner before the goalkeeper could get anywhere near.
Perhaps questions of the positioning of Asmir Begovic could be asked, but really, he could have been stood dead centrally for the effort and he might not have saved it, such was the swerve and venom of the strike.
7. Sweden
Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo (C) celebrates his goal next to Sweden's defender Per Nilsson (R) during the FIFA 2014 World Cup qualifier play-off first leg football match Portugal vs Sweden at the Luz stadium in Lisbon on November 15, 2013. Portug
Ronaldo isn't just a goalscorer against the poorest sides around, he frequently comes to the fore when his team need him most.
That was the case in the play-offs for the 2014 World Cup, where Portugal faced Sweden, a Cristiano-Zlatan Ibrahimovic shootout of sorts that the No. 7 duly won. He'd already scored in the first leg, but he went on and notched a hat-trick in the second in a 3-2 win—Zlatan scored Sweden's goals—to send his nation through.
His first, just after the break, showcased his pace, dribbling and composure in the finish, though there was more to come.
6. Latvia
Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo (R) celebrates scoring the opening goal during the FIFA World Cup 2018 qualification football match between Latvia and Portugal in Riga, on June 9, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / Janek SKARZYNSKI (Photo credit should read
Portugal shouldn't have too much trouble ending their World Cup qualifying campaign in the top two, and top spot is still up for grabs. Earlier in the campaign, Ronaldo put Latvia to the sword with a pair of goals in the 4-1 win.
They were goals 67 and 68 of his international career; the latter (visible from 3:30 here) was a spectacular mid-air volley on the side, ensuring three points for his nation and pushing the forward ever clearer as the record scorer for his nation.
5. Denmark
Portugal´s forward Cristiano Ronaldo (R) celebrates after scoring a goal against Denmark during their EURO 2012 qualifier football match at the Dragao Stadium in Porto, on October 8, 2010. Portugal won the match 3-1. AFP PHOTO/MIGUEL RIOPA (Photo credit s
There was a time when Cristiano Ronaldo was known for his unstoppable free-kicks; that time might have passed on, but the reminder of why he became so feared for a period remains.
Qualification for Euro 2012 saw his side go up against Denmark; they suffered defeat on this occasion in Copenhagen, but Ronaldo left an indelible mark on the game in stoppage time with a quite frankly ridiculous set-piece strike.
A swerving, dipping hammer-shot, arrowed into the top corner from 30 yards or more, it left the 'keeper with no chance.
4. Sweden
Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring the second goal for Portugal during the FIFA 2014 World Cup playoff football match Sweden vs Portugal at the Friends Arena in Solna near Stockholm on November 19, 2013 . AFP PHOTO/ JONATHAN NAC
Earlier we saw Ronaldo's opener against Sweden in the World Cup 2014 qualifier; now he wraps up his hat-trick.
Racing on to an angled through pass, Ronaldo's first touch took the ball around the goalkeeper, the second set himself and the third hammered in his treble goal to send Portugal all the way to Brazil.
It's worth noting that three minutes before this third goal, Portugal were 2-1 down; a quick-fire pair of goals totally turned things around and left Zlatan and Co. with a free summer.
3. Hungary
Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring a goal during the Euro 2016 group F football match between Hungary and Portugal at the Parc Olympique Lyonnais stadium in Decines-Charpieu, near Lyon, on June 22, 2016. / AFP / FRANCISCO LEONG
Back into the Euros themselves now, 2016 and a reminder that Portugal's run to the final didn't start and end with victories. Indeed, they drew all three group-stage fixtures, qualifying for the knockouts by virtue of a better goal difference than Albania and Turkey.
Against Hungary in the final group game, Ronaldo came to life, scoring twice—including this sumptuous back-heeled effort from inside the penalty box.
Croatia, Poland and Wales were then vanquished en route to the final against France.
2. Armenia
Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates a goal during the UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying round Group I football match between Armenia and Portugal in Yerevan on June 13, 2015. AFP PHOTO / KAREN MINASYAN / AFP / Karen MINASYAN (Photo credit shoul
The top two are hard to separate and it's extremely subjective: Is control, poise and coolness better than explosive action and searing strikes?
We've opted to say yes, so it's Ronaldo's blistering cannonball from range against Armenia that takes the runner-up spot. As if the strike itself wasn't enough, this one was for a hat-trick.
They must have been sick of the sight of the No. 7; in two qualifying matches just seven months apart, Ronaldo scored four times against Armenia, with Portugal winning 1-0 and 3-2 as a result.
1. Ecuador
GUIMARAES, PORTUGAL - FEBRUARY 06: Cristiano Ronaldo (R) of Portugal duels for the ball with Luis Antonio Valencia of Ecuador during the international friendly match between Portugal and Ecuador at the Estadio Dom Afonso Henriques on February 6, 2013 in G
Top of the charts was in a less meaningful game and earlier in his career, 2013 and a friendly fixture against Ecuador.
That means little when you witness, or indeed score in Ronaldo's case, a truly remarkable and memorable goal such as this one: a run off the back of the defender, latching on to a back-heeled pass, lifting the ball back over the same defender in sombrero fashion before unleashing an unstoppable half-volley across the face of goal and into the far corner of the net.
Ronaldo's finest goal on the international stage and just one of 75 so far—and counting.
