Portugal completely overpowered Liechtenstein in Vaduz, cruising to a comfortable 9-0 victory in the U21 European Championship qualifiers. The Equipa das Quinas felt plenty of love at Rheinpark Stadion due to a significant Portuguese support, all of whom left proud after a classy display against an inferior opponent.

Portugal were dominant from the first whistle to the last, Fábio Silva hitting a hat-trick and Vítor Oliveira bagging a brace. Paulo Bernardo got in on the act in the first half with Fábio Carvalho, Henrique Araújo and Gonçalo Ramos coming off the bench to score in the final 15 minutes.

Rui Jorge made more changes to give some of his fringe players game time with top spot in Group 4 guaranteed. Zé Carlos, David Costa and Francisco Conceição made their first starts, Gonçalo Tabuaço and Rodrigo Conceição made their debuts in the starting side and Vasco Sousa earned his first U21 cap off the bench.

Former Portugal international defender Bruno Alves has announced his immediate retirement from football at the age of 40.

Alves spent last season in Greece with Apollon Smyrnis, where he missed the last month of the campaign with injury. On Sunday, the veteran stopper took to Instagram to confirm he has kicked his last ball as a professional.

“Today I inform you that I am ending my career as a football player, being grateful for everything and everyone: clubs, managers, coaches and people who have been involved in my sporting life. Thank you to my family and friends for all the support at all times. This journey ends, but other opportunities will arise. See you soon. Thank you.” 

Portugal dismantled Switzerland in the UEFA Nations League thanks to a vibrant attacking display at Lisbon’s Estádio José Alvalade.

Coach Fernando Santos has faced plenty of criticism for a perceived lack of style but this was put to one side for at least an evening as the Seleção overwhelmed their opponents in a vastly one-sided affair that could have yielded an even higher scoreline than the 4-0 full time score.

William Carvalho and João Cancelo goals either side of a Cristiano Ronaldo brace ensured a comfortable evening for the 2019 Nations League champions.

The Seleção are back in action on Sunday evening as they welcome Switzerland to Lisbon in their second Nations League match.

Portugal are coming off a 1-1 draw in Spain, while Switzerland are in need of points after losing their opener 2-1 in the Czech Republic.

Porto midfielder Vitinha has recovered from Covid-19 and Fernando Santos has his full complement of 26 players to select from.