Cristiano Ronaldo Scores 901st Career Goal In Portugal's 2-1 Win Over Scotland

Cristiano Ronaldo netted his 901st career goal on Sunday, leading Portugal to a 2-1 comeback victory against Scotland in the UEFA Nations League. The 39-year-old star scored from close range in the 88th minute, securing the win for Portugal after they had trailed earlier in Lisbon.

Scotland took a surprise lead in the 7th minute when Scott McTominay powered in a header. Despite dominating possession and creating multiple chances, Portugal struggled to break down Scotland’s defense for much of the first half.

Portugal finally found an equalizer in the 54th minute when Bruno Fernandes scored with a precise shot from the edge of the penalty area. The home side continued to press for the winner, with Ronaldo hitting the post and Scotland’s goalkeeper Angus Gunn pulling off two spectacular saves to deny João Félix.

Just when it seemed like the match would end in a draw, Ronaldo appeared at the back post to convert a dangerous cross from Nuno Mendes, sealing the victory for Portugal. This marked his second goal during the international break, having also scored his 900th career goal against Croatia on Thursday.

Ronaldo’s tally now includes 132 goals for Portugal, in addition to his 450 for Real Madrid, 145 for Manchester United, 101 for Juventus, 68 for Al Nassr, and 5 for Sporting Lisbon.

After the match, Fernandes, who was playing his 600th career game, praised Ronaldo’s influence on the team: “The influence is always the same, regardless of whether he starts on the bench or not,” Fernandes said, per Reuters. “Everyone who came on made the difference. Cristiano has a goal, today he scored 901, and now he’s on his way to a thousand, which is what he wants.”

Portugal’s win gives them a perfect start to their Nations League campaign, leading League A Group 1 with six points. Croatia follows in second place with three points after a 1-0 victory against Poland, with Luka Modrić scoring the only goal in the 52nd minute.

In other Nations League action, Spain continued their impressive form in 2024 with a 4-1 win over Switzerland, despite playing with 10 men for much of the match after Robin Le Normand was sent off in the 20th minute.