Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes fired Portugal ahead against Iceland on Sunday with a beautiful strike from the far corner of the box.
Portugal host Iceland in Euro 2024 qualifier
Fernandes scores first-half opener
Perfect response to Man Utd critics
WHAT HAPPENED?
Iceland were holding Portugal at 0-0 with half-time fast approaching in the Euro 2024 qualifying clash, only for Fernandes to pop up with a moment of brilliance to break the deadlock. He controlled a back-heel pass from Bernardo Silva out in front of him before unleashing a superb shot that flew into the far corner of the net, with Iceland goalkeeper Hakon Valdimarsson unable to get near the ball despite a full-stretch dive.
WATCH THE CLIP
🎙️ "Oh, what a beautiful goal!"@ManUtd's Bruno Fernandes with a great strike for Portugal's opener 🪄🇵🇹#EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/ue1fxntpJt
— Viaplay Sports UK (@ViaplaySportsUK) November 19, 2023
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Portugal were already safely through to next summer’s European Championship, having won all of their opening nine games in Group J. Fernandes is now up to six goals and seven assists in qualifying outings, and appears to be saving his best performances for the international stage. The 29-year-old midfielder has faced criticism for his performances at Manchester United this season, with Erik ten Hag’s side having slipped way off the pace in the Premier League – but supporters will hope he can transfer his form for Portugal back to his club ahead of a busy festive period.
Getty ImagesWHAT’S NEXT FOR FERNANDES
Fernandes will likely return to Ten Hag’s starting XI when United take on Everton at Goodison Park on Sunday. The Red Devils will then turn their attention to the Champions League, with a must-win encounter against Galatasaray on the cards.
