Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice, leading Portugal to a 3-0 victory over Ireland in their final Euro 2024 warm-up match on Tuesday.
Joao Felix also scored, helping the team rebound from a previous loss to Croatia. Ronaldo, who did not play in the last match, was a starter this time.
Portugal, the Euro 2016 champions, had a perfect qualification record. However, recent games have raised concerns. Ronaldo emphasized high expectations for Portugal and needed a grounded yet ambitious approach to the Euros. He is set to participate in his sixth Euro, first competing in 2004.
Ronaldo remains committed to the national team, stressing the combination of talent and hard work. Felix opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a clever goal. Ronaldo hit the post with a free kick and was denied a penalty call before scoring early in the second half. His second goal was followed shortly by assistance from Diogo Jota.
Ronaldo’s two goals increased his international tally to a record 130 goals. He narrowly missed a hat trick as the Irish team began to falter. Despite the pressure, Portugal did not score further.
Felix reflected positively on the performance, seeing it as a confidence builder for the upcoming tournament in Germany. Portugal begins its Euro 2024 campaign against the Czech Republic on June 18, followed by matches against Turkey and Georgia in Group F.
