Portugal clinched their spot in Euro 2024 by defeating Slovakia 3-2. Cristiano Ronaldo netted two goals, contributing to Roberto Martinez's team maintaining a flawless record in Group J, with seven consecutive wins. Goncalo Ramos also found the back of the net for Portugal, but Slovakia mounted a comeback with goals from David Hancko and Stanislav Lobotka. Slovakia holds onto the second position in the group, but Luxembourg is closely trailing them.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored two goals as Roberto Martinez's team defeated Slovakia 3-2, securing their spot in UEFA Euro 2024.

Entering this game, the Selecao were aware that their victory would secure their qualification for Euro 2024, given that they had won all six of their previous qualifying matches, leaving them with three games to spare.

"I am enjoying the moment, which is good, I feel good, my body is responding to what I have given it over the last few years. I am happy both in the national team and at club level. I've scored a lot of goals and I feel good physically," Cristiano shared with journalists following the Portugal game.

Bruno Fernandes had the first big chance of the match after 13 minutes, curling a brilliant effort on target from distance but Slovakia goalkeeper Martin Dubravka pulled off a stunning diving save to keep the game level.

Slovakia came incredibly close to seizing the lead in the 16th minute when a deflected cross hit the crossbar, but Portugal managed to escape unscathed. Just two minutes later, Goncalo Ramos found the net for Portugal's first goal of the night. This came after some brilliant play by Fernandes, who skillfully avoided a challenge and delivered a flawless cross.

In the 30th minute, Ronaldo took the responsibility of converting a penalty, doubling Portugal's lead after a handball by a Slovakia player. Despite having numerous opportunities to increase their lead in the first half, including a close-range attempt by Ramos that hit the post, Portugal had to settle for a 2-0 advantage at halftime.

In the 69th minute, Joao Cancelo had a significant opportunity for his team, but moments later, Slovakia managed to narrow the gap. David Hancko's long-range shot took a deflection off Antonio Silva and found the bottom corner, beating Diogo Costa. However, Slovakia's comeback was short-lived, as Portugal quickly reestablished a two-goal lead, with Ronaldo scoring from close range just two minutes later, marking his 125th international goal.

Slovakia, however, wasn't finished and managed to score again, making it 3-2 with just 10 minutes remaining, thanks to a stunning long-range shot from Stanislav Lobotka. This created a more tense ending for Portugal than it should have been, considering their overall dominance in the match. Nevertheless, Martinez's team secured the result and officially secured their spot at Euro 2024.

With seven matches played, seven victories achieved, 27 goals scored, and only two goals conceded, Portugal has ensured their qualification for UEFA Euro 2024. While it might seem like Portugal's group is one they should breeze through, the reality of football is far from that simple. Historically, Portugal has faced challenges in appearing convincing during qualifiers, whether for the Euros or the World Cup. However, this time, they've demonstrated exceptional efficiency under the leadership of Roberto Martinez.

Fernandes and CRonaldo both delivered outstanding performances for Portugal, but on this occasion, the former slightly takes the spotlight. His clever cut-back and precise cross led to his first assist of the night, facilitating Goncalo Ramos in scoring the opener, easing any Portuguese anxiety. Furthermore, his second assist of the evening, an exceptional pass to the back post for Ronaldo, contributed to the reestablishment of Portugal's two-goal advantage.

Fernandes played a pivotal role in every positive aspect of Portugal's performance. He managed to deliver five crucial passes, generated three significant scoring opportunities, and contributed with two assists. Additionally, he excelled in duels, winning four, and made two successful tackles. It was truly an exceptional performance.