Ronaldo's Goal Disallowed by VAR, Felix Leads Portugal to Defeat Wales in the UEFA Nations League

Cristiano Ronaldo failed to register a goal, but Portugal still began their 2026/27 UEFA Nations League A campaign with a victory. Joao Felix's first-half strike was the difference as Portugal defeated Wales 1-0 at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, early Friday morning WIB.

Ronaldo started this Group 4 fixture alongside Felix in the forward line. Portugal dominated the match from the opening minute and created multiple chances, though only one goal found the back of the Wales net.

With this win, Portugal collected three points to sit 2nd in Group 4. The Seleccao trail Norway on goal difference, after Norway beat Denmark 3-2 in their opening fixture.

Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus fielded his strongest available line-up. Ronaldo was named as one of the side's primary attacking pillars alongside Felix, while Bruno Fernandes operated as the home team's playmaker to build attacking moves.

Portugal took full control of proceedings. Ronaldo had the first clear chance of the match in the 9th minute, latching onto a through ball from Felix before dragging his shot wide of the target.

The Portugal captain threatened again 10 minutes later. After receiving a pass from Bruno Fernandes inside the penalty box, Ronaldo was unable to get a shot away as Neco Williams closed down the space rapidly to mark him.

Portugal's sustained pressure finally produced a goal in the 22nd minute. Nuno Mendes delivered a ball into the Wales defensive area, which Felix finished with a well-struck shot that Danny Ward could not stop. Portugal took a 1-0 lead and began to manage the match at a calmer, controlled tempo.

Ronaldo continued hunting for a goal before half-time. The Al Nassr forward received a cross from Joao Cancelo and attempted a left-footed strike, but his effort did not land on target.

Portugal maintained their advantage going into the half-time break.

Upon the start of the second half, Portugal reasserted their grip on the game. Ronaldo looked to have beaten Ward after Running onto a through ball from Bruno Fernandes.

However, the referee ordered a VAR review which confirmed Ronaldo had been in an offside position at the moment the pass was played.

The goal was disallowed, leaving Ronaldo waiting for another opportunity to get his name on the scoresheet.

Wales increased their pressure in the final minutes as they pushed for an equaliser. The visitors' best chance arrived in the 89th minute, when Sorba Thomas played a through ball to Kieffer Moore.

Moore then sent a low cross in from the left flank, but the ball travelled too quickly and James could not reach it at the far post.

Portugal ultimately held onto their lead until the final whistle blew.

For their next fixtures, Portugal will travel away to face Norway, while Wales will take on Denmark, as published on the official UEFA website.