Joao Felix’s deflected long-range strike was enough to give reigning Nations League champions Portugal a 1-0 victory over Wales in their opening match of the competition in Lisbon.
Portugal dominated possession and created the majority of the chances, registering 19 shots to Wales’ four, but their wastefulness in front of goal kept the visitors in contention until the final whistle.
Felix broke the deadlock after 22 minutes when his low, scuffed effort from the edge of the penalty area took a slight deflection off Wales captain Ben Davies before finding the far corner beyond goalkeeper Danny Ward.
Much of Portugal’s attacking threat once again centred on Cristiano Ronaldo, with the 41-year-old continuing to command the attention of the home crowd whenever he moved into dangerous areas.
Ronaldo, who made his international debut in 2003 and has scored a record 146 goals for Portugal, came close on several occasions.
He struck the side netting with one effort before sending an inviting volley high over the bar from close range.
The veteran forward thought he had doubled Portugal’s advantage after the hour mark when he slid the ball into the Wales net, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
Ronaldo was visibly frustrated by the decision and was substituted seven minutes later.
Portugal’s momentum faded after his departure, allowing Wales to create their best opportunity of the match.
Brennan Johnson came close to an equaliser when he chipped goalkeeper Diogo Costa, only for his effort to strike the face of the crossbar.
With Costa stranded, Lewis Koumas and Dan James rushed towards the rebound, but Koumas ultimately produced a tame effort that was cleared off the line by Portugal defender Ruben Dias.
Wales were unable to create another clear opening as Portugal held on for victory and began their Nations League campaign with three points.
