Portugal, deprived of its star striker Cristiano Ronaldo, was able to win without difficulty on Thursday evening over Sweden (5-2) during the friendly preparatory match for Euro 2024 in Guimarães (North).
In the absence of Ronaldo, who is expected to join the team next week for another friendly match against Slovenia, coach Roberto Martinez wanted to conduct a review of the squad so that he could “build the best list” for the Euros scheduled in Germany. (June 14 – July 14).
Facing a very aggressive Swedish team at the start of the match, his team quickly gained the upper hand. Martinez's men opened the scoring in the 24th minute thanks to a Rafael Leao goal.
After finding the post, the Milan striker took possession of the ball and sent it into the top corner with a powerful shot that deceived the Swedish goalkeeper.
Less than ten minutes later, Portugal extended the lead. Midfielder Matheus Nunes recovered the ball and took advantage of the passivity of the Swedish defense to advance into the penalty area and score with a surprise shot (33).
At the end of the first half, Bruno Fernandez, sent by Nelson Semedo, was able to increase the lead in favor of the Lusitanians (45).
In the second half, the Portuguese continued their control over their competitors from the Nordic countries, who missed out on their qualifying campaign for the European Championship 2024.
The Roma striker quickly scored (57) before Gonzalo Ramos (61) added another goal to the Portuguese's tally.
Sweden tried to save the honour: John Dal Tomasson's men reduced the gap thanks to two goals scored by Victor Gjokeris (58), Sporting Portugal player, and Gustav Nilsson (90).
Portugal has qualified for Euro 2024 after a series of error-free wins in 10 matches, and will continue its preparations on March 26 in Ljubljana to face Slovenia.
In June, the Seleção will play in the group of Turkey and the Czech Republic, as well as the winner of the play-off between Georgia and Greece.
