Bernardo Silva puts in golden performance as Portugal lift Nations League crown

Matt Jones - Editor 00:52 10/06/2019
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  • Portugal were crowned the inaugural Nations League winners after a dominant display against a disappointing Dutch side in Porto.

    The 1-0 scoreline might not seem convincing but this was about as dominant a performance as you could see, with the reigning European champions almost always comfortable.

    They had 18 shots compared to the Netherlands’ four and Goncalo Guedes’ blistering strike on the hour was no more than they deserved.

    Here we rate the Portugal players.

    PORTUGAL (4-3-3)

    Rui Patricio 7: Terrific stop from Wijnaldum, he had no idea Liverpool midfielder was offside. Then genuinely thwarted his header and also kept Luuk de Jong’s effort out.

    Nelson Semedo 6: Speedy Barcelona right-back failed to have much say on proceedings but at least had a fairly impressive evening, jointly led side with three tackles and 92.6 per cent pass accuracy was second best.

    Ruben Dias 7: Excellent tackle stopped barrelling Bergwijn in his tracks. A powerful, stoic presence, who made six clearances and rarely looked troubled. Would have impressed any watching Man United scouts.

    Jose Fonte 7: Saw best initial sight of goal but header from corner was tame. Commanding presence even at 35, winning team-high six aerials.

    Raphael Guerreiro 7: Lively on the left, eagerly bombing forward. Excellent work of midfielders allowed him to roam and give Holland headaches at the back.

    Bruno Fernandes 6: Bright start but sloppy pass almost let Bergwijn in. Then stung Cillessen’s palms before testing him again later on. Busy throughout, with three key passes, which will excite United fans.

    Danilo Pereira 6: Went about his work with minimum fuss and effort alongside Carvalho. His 93.1 per cent pass accuracy led Portugal.

    William Carvalho 7: Diligently patrolled middle third and actively drove his side on as they stifled the creators in blue shirts. Kept tight reign on De Jong and Co.

    Bernardo Silva 9: Twinkle-toed schemer as important as Ronaldo, always thinking a few seconds ahead. Was a constant menace as he drove and picked holes in Dutch defence – led way with five key passes, one of which set up Guedes.

    Cristiano Ronaldo 8: Flashed a fizzing header at Cillessen, but was offside. Always at the heart of his side’s forays forward, even if he never had a clear sight of goal. Even got back to help defence.

    Goncalo Guedes 7: Buzzed around and probed, rifling a rocket of a shot home for the opener, giving Cillessen little chance. Enjoyed gaps opening up in second 45.

    SUBS

    Rafa Silva 7: Replaced goalscorer Guedes and immersed himself in the action, a thorn in the Dutch side.

    Joao Moutinho N/A: Veteran came on to win 115th cap, and almost won a penalty.

    Ruben Neves N/A: Brought on just to waste time.

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