Hungary 0-3 Portugal

Portugal beat Hungary 3-0 at Puskás Aréna to get their 2020 UEFA European Championship campaign off to a winning start.

The Seleção had to wait until the 83rd minute to take the lead through Raphaël Guerreiro’s deflected strike, Cristiano Ronaldo scoring two late goals to seal the deal.

Portugal assert their authority

Portugal created their first opportunity in the 5th minute. Bernardo Silva sent Diogo Jota through, he created some space and shot at Péter Gulácsi with Ronaldo unmarked and screaming for the ball.

Jota couldn’t direct a Bruno Fernandes free kick towards goal as the Seleção failed to sustain any serious pressure despite monopolising possession.

Pepe’s long ball found Ronaldo in an offside position and Bernardo Silva was tackled by Willi Orban in a promising position. The Magyars couldn’t get near Portugal’s goal as Fernando Santos’ side continued to probe for openings.

Ronaldo rose high and headed Bernardo’s cross wide before the Magyars fashioned their first chance. Ádám Szalai won a free kick out wide and then headed it straight at Rui Patrício.

Hungary started to see more ball towards the end of the first half but it was Portugal who continued to create chances.

Nélson Semedo surged to the byline and found Jota who forced a save from Gulácsi. Bruno Fernandes then sent a cross into the danger zone where Ronaldo fired over from close range after the ball took a slight deflection off Jota.

Portugal continue to probe

The second half started with more Portuguese pressure, Fernandes’ corner finding Pepe who tested Gulácsi.

Hungary had a brief spell of pressure, Szalai with a shot from distance straight at Patrício and Roland Sallai doing the same not long after.

Marco Rossi made the first move in the 66th minute as Loic Nego replaced András Schäfer.

Bruno Fernandes’ low drive saw Gulácsi turn the ball wide as Santos brought on Rafa Silva for Bernardo Silva. 

Fernandes found Ronaldo who saw a handball claim denied, Hungary making two more changes as Roland Sallai and László Kleinheisler made way for Szabolcs Schon and Dávid Miklós Sigér.

Hungarian supporters thought their side has made a breakthrough in the 80th minute but it wasn’t to be. Schon broke free, cut inside Pepe and finished past Patrício but was ruled offside.

Renato Sanches and André Silva were introduced for William Carvalho and Diogo Jota and three minutes later Portugal went in front.

Breakthrough

Rafa’s cross rebounded into the path of Raphael Guereiro, his shot taking a big deflection off Orban and past a helpless Gulácsi.

Two minutes later Portugal won a penalty as Renato Sanches went on a long run, released Rafa who got into a tussle with Orban who was judged to have brought him down. Ronaldo stepped up and sent Gulácsi the wrong way.

João Moutinho came on for Bruno Fernandes and it was soon 3-0. It was a beautiful team goal, Rafa playing a double 1-2 with Ronaldo who rounded Gulácsi and finished into an empty net.

Positive dress rehearsal

Fernando Santos selected his tried and tested midfield duo as Danilo Pereira partnered William Carvalho in the engine room. It didn't seem like they were both required in the second half with Portugal requiring more thrust and creativity, but Santos persisted until the 81st minute when Renato Sanches replaced William.

Santos undoubtedly had an eye on the two upcoming matches against Germany and France when selecting his starting side. With that in mind, despite all three goals coming in the final 10 minutes, it was a positive dress rehearsal as Portugal aim to defend their European Championship title.

Ronaldo centre stage once again

Ronaldo became the first men's player in history to play in five European Championships. He also went two goals clear of Michel Platini as the leading goalscorer at the tournament, his double taking him to 11 goals.

The 36-year-old went close twice in the first half, and despite being relatively quiet in the second period, he stepped up when it counted to make it 106 goals in 176 matches for his country. Ronaldo continues to break records and is closing in on the most international goals, requiring just three more to equal Ali Daei who scored 109 goals for Iran.

Line Ups

Portugal XI (4-2-3-1): Rui Patrício - Nelson Semedo, Pepe, Rúben Dias, Raphaël Guerreiro - Danilo Pereira, William Carvalho (Renato Sanches 81’) - Bernardo Silva (Rafa Silva 71’), Bruno Fernandes (João Moutinho 89’), Diogo Jota (André Silva 81’) - Cristiano Ronaldo

Unused substitutes: Rui Silva, Anthony Lopes, Diogo Dalot, Nuno Mendes, José Fonte, João Palhinha, Sérgio Oliveira, Rúben Neves, , Pote, Gonçalo Guedes, João Félix

Hungary XI (5-3-2): Gulácsi - Botka, Orban, Attila Szalai - Lovrencsics, Kleinheisler (Schon 78’), Nagy (Roland Varga 89’), Schäfer (Négo 66’), Fiola (Kevin Varga 89’) - Ádám Szalai, Sallai (Sigér 78’)

Unused substitutes: Bogdán, Dibusz, Bolla, Lang, Kecskés, Cseri, Gazdag, Hahn, Nikolić, Holender

Goals

[0-1] Raphael Guerreiro 84'

[0-2] Ronaldo 87' (pen)

[0-3] Ronaldo 91'


Related: Hungary 0-3 Portugal match reaction

Related: Hungary 0-3 Portugal player ratings

 

Comments (17)

This comment was minimized by the moderator on the site

I was screaming at Santos throw on Renato throughout the entire second half. He comes on for the last 10 minutes and we score 3 goals.

I have no problem with William. He was fine today, but there is no reason to play both he and danilo against...

I was screaming at Santos throw on Renato throughout the entire second half. He comes on for the last 10 minutes and we score 3 goals.

I have no problem with William. He was fine today, but there is no reason to play both he and danilo against such defensive opposition.

Portugal created enough in the first half to be 1-0 at half time but Jota and Ronaldo couldn't finish.

The second half was painfully lethargic.it took the energetic Renato Sanches and a fortunate deflected goal to take the lead in the 84th minute.

Ronaldo, Jota, Bruno Fernandes, and Bernardo were all quiet.

Semedo and Danilo were perhaps our best players before the introduction of Renato and Rafa.

Ronaldo took his goals well and is now well poised to overtake Ali daei at some point during the euros.

Next up is Germany, a side with plenty of talent but a soft defensive underbelly. It'll be interesting to see how we fare against a far more proactive, attack-minded opponent.

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jon/usa
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Great point about the bringing Sanches, we didn't need to be so defensive with Hungary sitting back. Sanches, in my opinion can play the in the double pivot instead of Danilo or Carvalho. With him we get a direct drive forward. We only lose in...

Great point about the bringing Sanches, we didn't need to be so defensive with Hungary sitting back. Sanches, in my opinion can play the in the double pivot instead of Danilo or Carvalho. With him we get a direct drive forward. We only lose in the sense of set pieces, which I think was the only major threat Hungary posed until they opened up to attack.

I was also getting worried it was taking him to long to bring Sanches in, glad it worked out in the end, but sooner would have been better.

I am fine with Renato not starting against Germany, as the have size and I would prefer he start against France to battle Kante, if need be.

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Paulo
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The Benfica Boys (Renato and Rafa) were the difference. They injected some much needed energy and were a factor in every goal.

Los
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What was up with all the sloppy passes in the final 3rd? Portuguese players were literally passing it straight to Hungarian players with no Portuguese players actually there to receive the pass. We can't waste those many chances against France...

What was up with all the sloppy passes in the final 3rd? Portuguese players were literally passing it straight to Hungarian players with no Portuguese players actually there to receive the pass. We can't waste those many chances against France and Germany. We need to be more clinical. Hope that Dias yellow card doesn't result in a suspension later on against a big team. Happy for the win. But Portugal did it in typical Euro style. Painful and agonizing 80 minutes, with 10 minutes of pure ecstasy lol.

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MIKE D
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First half was really good, except giving away the chances. Jota was direct but lack of precision. Ronaldo and Jota do not harmonize. Semedo was defensively ok but offered no thread going forward. This is a game when you‘d need a Cancelo ;-) ....

First half was really good, except giving away the chances. Jota was direct but lack of precision. Ronaldo and Jota do not harmonize. Semedo was defensively ok but offered no thread going forward. This is a game when you‘d need a Cancelo ;-) . Guerreiro very good. If Dias continues like this he‘ll miss a game or two sooner or later. We were lucky with referee Cacir. Danilo was excellent. The 1:0 changed the game, but this goal was a product of pure luck and… Rafa Silva! Would never think to see him as matchwinner against such a defensive side where spaces are tight… very positive surprise. He was actually the trigger for all (!) 3 goals. Renato for William was a good decision too. But as always muuuuch too late… some good learnings here

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Rolf Gerber
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I'll admit...

I was pissed at Rafa S for a few minutes, he didn't look like his had an forward energy. But boy did he turn it on, and still stay calm as he was involved in all 3 goals. That is what experience looks like. I am used to him being...

I'll admit...

I was pissed at Rafa S for a few minutes, he didn't look like his had an forward energy. But boy did he turn it on, and still stay calm as he was involved in all 3 goals. That is what experience looks like. I am used to him being a bundle of energy for Benfica.

Semedo did do really well except his chemistry with Bernardo isn't there yet, as you pointed out.

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Paulo
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Renato Sanches and Rafa both made statements for themselves today. I personally think Renato has to start against Germany. Otherwise our team played well against a stubborn and organized Hungary today.

Brandon
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I would save Renato for a sub and start him against France, to battle Kante. Germany has size for set pieces whch Danilo and William can handle.

However, in the knockout stages, I would prefer Sanches starts.

Paulo
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Best match of the Euros so far. Hugh voltage game, intense,no holds barred fight, the crowd and an absolute WAR!!! I thought it would turn into another battle of Nuremberg but it didn't as both of them were pretty disciplined and no horror...

Best match of the Euros so far. Hugh voltage game, intense,no holds barred fight, the crowd and an absolute WAR!!! I thought it would turn into another battle of Nuremberg but it didn't as both of them were pretty disciplined and no horror tackles were to be seen in the 90 mins. Neutral fans might have enjoyed it, but for us it was an absolute rollercoaster of a ride until the last ten minutes. I got extremely agitated as the time was ticking and no goals scored yet. The match had draw written all over it atleast from second half onwards. Absolutely delighted when Guerreiro scored via deflection. I remember the last time Hungary scored two deflected goal against us. Danilo looked superb to me. I feel sorry for William, he's DM at best, has the quality of #8 and #10 but he doesn't convince me in the advanced role. Perhaps too old shool for modern football. Still a great player though. Jota always tried something different but decision making was off. It happens in football anyway. Nothing to worry about. I really want to see Joao Felix as tournament progresses. Força Portugal. Bonus Text: That 3rd Goal was superb.

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Nishanth Dsouza
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That is a stretch to say this was the best match of the Euro. Believe me, I love my Portugal team but that was not the best, So far the Holland vs Ukraine was the best game. Holland winning 2-0, Ukraine comes back with two excellent goals...

That is a stretch to say this was the best match of the Euro. Believe me, I love my Portugal team but that was not the best, So far the Holland vs Ukraine was the best game. Holland winning 2-0, Ukraine comes back with two excellent goals to tie and then Holland counters with a 3rd for the win. Alot of back and forth action. But to each his own opinion.

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MrJohn
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It’s funny, as a Benfiquista, I always think Rafa is a one-trick pony (speedy winger, not good at much else). Today he certainly stepped it up as a super sub.

Although I’m very nervous with how Portugal will do at this tournament, one thing is...

It’s funny, as a Benfiquista, I always think Rafa is a one-trick pony (speedy winger, not good at much else). Today he certainly stepped it up as a super sub.

Although I’m very nervous with how Portugal will do at this tournament, one thing is for certain: this staunch defensive style needs to be kept. Hungary did a good job sniffing out attacks, but once Guerreiros deflection went in, the wind was let out of their sails.

Only negative for me is the same culprit: Bernardo Silva. I feel like for the National Team I am expecting so much more. He plays well for City, but is underwhelming for Portugal.

On to the next one!

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John
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He has been under whelming for City also, especially towards the end of the season. If he started, usually the first subbed out.

Maybe he is tired? He runs a heck of a lot in the pressing game and covers for his wing-backs.

But even as a sub,...

He has been under whelming for City also, especially towards the end of the season. If he started, usually the first subbed out.

Maybe he is tired? He runs a heck of a lot in the pressing game and covers for his wing-backs.

But even as a sub, wow what a player to have.

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Paulo
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It was ugly but I will take it. These defensive teams are hard to break. As you saw yesterday, Spain could not crack Sweden with 84% possession. Glad we finally got it done at 84 minute. Good comments by all. Jota had an off day. We...

It was ugly but I will take it. These defensive teams are hard to break. As you saw yesterday, Spain could not crack Sweden with 84% possession. Glad we finally got it done at 84 minute. Good comments by all. Jota had an off day. We did not need both Danilo and Carvalho in the middle. Actually did you see Carvalho out the right wing with the ball a few times...what the heck?....LOL Renato and Rafa definitely provided energy. So changes for next game: play Andre Silva in place of Diogo or Bernardo. He brings Bundesliga experience. The same with Renato. Need that energy and prior experience.

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MrJohn
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And William did well getting out on the wing. Rafa brought calm, which surprised me, he was very assured and didn't rush things. Like you I usually see Tasmanian Devil level of energy.

Paulo
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What a whirlwind of a game

Straight away starting two defensive midfielders against Hungary was an inexcusably awful decision. I thought the match was lively throughout we created many chances to score. Jota appeared to be a bit jittery playing...

What a whirlwind of a game

Straight away starting two defensive midfielders against Hungary was an inexcusably awful decision. I thought the match was lively throughout we created many chances to score. Jota appeared to be a bit jittery playing in his first major tournament.. gave the ball away quite a few times but nevertheless he was presently involved which is good. A couple attempts on goal in which the Hungarian keeper had to turn aside. I rather have someone looking a bit shaky rather than vanishing entirely. Evidently, C.Ronaldo was wide open on that first shot but Jota gets a pass from me on this occasion.

Issues I noticed as the game begun to slowly settle down:

1. Bernardo Silva out wide

I imagine we'll keep beating the drum pertaining to Bernardo Silva until the day he retires. Another wasted talent similar to Danny. He'll cut in and put in a good cross every so often but he is otherwise very limited and unproductive. The guy is incapable of cutting to the by line and putting in a cross on his right foot. He looks like a one trick pony out there and I'm sure the French and German scouts will be finding this out shortly. Play the dude in the middle or don't play him at all. Rafa is all of a sudden a mastermind when you compare the two which is not what we need to be hearing because Rafa is not starter material in any way shape or form. He got his contribution in on some basic 1-2 passing. Any of our players who are technically a winger or a full back are equally capable of providing the same support.

2. William as our most creative playmaker

Terrible idea. No wonder we hardly got things going once Hungary fully parked the bus. Really? What is Fernando Santos thinking? He must be delusional if he thinks William has the IQ or passing ability to unlock the opponents defence. We wasted 80 whole minutes repeating the same thing over and over and for as much defensive coverage that William + Danilo offer our center backs, they were both in no mans land every time Hungary countered. They are both slow and don't have the pace to rush back and close off any threats. That's how Hungary found the net and Portugal were headed for a quick tourny exit had the goal not been marginally offside.

3. Bruno Fernandes operating too far up the pitch

Where was this guy the whole first half? We needed him to drop back and help William find outlets. Invisible. Apart from one long distance shot on target in the 2nd.. unequivocally the flop of the match. Maybe Santos has something to do with it though. Worst strategy ever.

4. Santos' substitutions

Rafa as the first choice sub? Those cigarettes clearly show a negative affect your brain cells. Bless Fernando so that he'll be able to think straight. Nothing sparked in the ensuing 15 minutes. Only when Renato got introduced in the 80th minute did the switch flick instantaneously. Sanches is a tank and he cleared out the midfield all by himself. Thankfully there was enough time on the clock for us to win the game.

Conclusion: Renato should be an automatic starter. Some say keep him for the last 20 minutes so he'll be a menace against tired legs. but who do you start then? Because this midfield is not working. Portugal lacks a central playmaker badly. We have Moutinho but he's unable to keep up for long periods these days.. Bruno is playing AM and we don't expect that to change. I'd love to see Bernardo in the middle but the odds are less than 1 in 1000. Renato at least gets to play in his preferred position. Our staff better have some alternatives up their sleeves.. this double-pivot with full backs pushing up is so easy to read and exploit and we will be taken out prematurely if he they aren't working on another system. Maybe against France it would be necessary but now the cards have been shown.

All in all happy we managed to claim 3 points.. but there's lots of work to be done. Força Portugal!

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SupremoGino
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It was always going to be a tough game when the opposition parks the bus for the 90 mintues. I thought we played well against an well oiled organised machine and Hungary made it extremely tough. I think Danilo and WIlliam play very well together,...

It was always going to be a tough game when the opposition parks the bus for the 90 mintues. I thought we played well against an well oiled organised machine and Hungary made it extremely tough. I think Danilo and WIlliam play very well together, howvever they don't offer that creativity that was needed to crack open their stubborn defence. What confused me was Bruno played as a number 9, I wasn't sure why he stayed up their for the majority of the game, he would have been more effective playing deeper to receive the ball from our defence and DM's to create something. When he did our play moved forwards. However just my 2 cents all the way from Australia

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Miguel
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