Cristiano Ronaldo made his Portugal comeback in style with a hat-trick, as they beat Switzerland 3-1 in the Nations League semi-final.
The Juventus striker had taken time off from international duty to help his first season in Turin and Serie A.
He returned refreshed and seemingly better than ever, because he was absolutely decisive to reach a place in the inaugural Nations League Final, which will be against England or the Netherlands.
Cristiano Ronaldo made his Portugal comeback in style with a hat-trick, as they beat Switzerland 3-1 in the Nations League semi-final.
The Juventus striker had taken time off from international duty to help his first season in Turin and Serie A.
He returned refreshed and seemingly better than ever, because he was absolutely decisive to reach a place in the inaugural Nations League Final, which will be against England or the Netherlands.
CR7 broke the deadlock with a scorching free kick, then there was controversy for the Swiss equaliser – a penalty converted by Milan full-back Ricardo Rodriguez – because that was awarded by VAR for a foul that occurred moments before Portugal had been given a penalty.
As it looked like this was heading to extra time, Ronaldo stepped up with two ferocious finishes in just two minutes.
He now has 88 goals in 157 senior caps for Portugal, including seven hat-tricks.
Portugal 3-1 Switzerland
Ronaldo 25, 88, 90 (P), Rodriguez pen 57 (S)