Cristiano Ronaldo has set another record as the first player to score at five FIFA World Cups when he led Portugal to a thrilling victory over Ghana in their World Cup opener.
The 37-year-old scored the opening goal from the penalty spot, hammering in after being tripped in the box by Ghana’s Southampton defender Mohammed Salisu.
The Portuguese was playing for the first time since his controversial television interview and announced his mutual agreement to part ways with Manchester United following the comments.
Captain Ronaldo had a couple of chances early on but a low shot was smothered by Lawrence Ati-Zigi and he also headed wide at the far post.
The forward had a goal disallowed for a push on Alexander Djiku while at the other end, Ghana did not have a single shot in the opening period.
The Africans improved in the second period as Mohammed Kudus drilled narrowly wide of the far post and got their reward when Andre Ayew equalised from close range.
But Portugal responded with two goals in two minutes to seal the points – Joao Felix converting a delightfully clipped finish and substitute Rafael Leao coolly stroking in just seconds after coming on.
Osman Bukhari headed in a late consolation for Ghana, but victory means Portugal top Group H after Uruguay and South Korea played out a goalless draw earlier on Thursday.