Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes, who was given credit for the first goal in Portugal’s 2-0 victory over Uruguay, said that he initially believed Cristiano Ronaldo had scored the opener.
As Portugal joined France and Brazil as the three nations to advance from the group stage after only two games, Fernandes assisted his country in securing their spot in the World Cup’s round of 16.
Ronaldo appeared to glance the header into the bottom corner of the net after Fernandes curled in a cross, setting up Portugal’s first goal. Replays revealed that the former United player did not make contact with the ball, despite the 37-year-old celebrating the goal.
Ronaldo appeared confused when the PA system announced that Fernandes had actually been given the goal, which was later confirmed in the stadium. After the match, the United star admitted that he mistakenly believed his former teammate had scored the opener.
As reported by the Manchester Evening News, the midfielder said:
“I celebrated as if it had been Cristiano’s goal, it seemed to me that he had touched the ball, my aim was to cross the ball for him. What’s important is that we were able to go to the next round and (secure) a very important win against a very tough opponent.”
The Portuguese striker has been in the limelight after scoring a record goal against Ghana. He became the first men’s player to score in five different World Cup campaigns.
With 118 International goals to his name, Ronaldo will aim to end the year on a high by helping his country lift the World Cup. The legendary striker revealed earlier this month that he will retire from International football if Portugal is crowned World Cup champions.
Bruno will not be able to play alongside Ronaldo at club level after the striker decided to leave Old Trafford this month. However, both players will be aiming to win the maximum number of titles for Portugal.
