The scoreline does no justice to Hungary’s effort but reflects history in the making. Cristiano Ronaldo marked his record appearance at a fifth European Championship as only he could – by also overtaking Michel Platini as the all-time leading goalscorer in the competition’s history. Portugal left it late. Their star man left his stamp yet again.
A gruelling, punishing opener for the holders turned into another celebration of Ronaldo’s extraordinary influence and longevity. Raphaël Guerreiro, Portugal’s left-back, made the vital and fortunate breakthrough with six minutes remaining before Ronaldo took his Euros tally to 10 and 11 from the penalty spot and with a dazzling piece of footwork respectively. His brace took his total tally for Portugal to an incredible 106 goals. He now requires only three to equal the all-time international record of Iran’s Ali Daei. It was a noteworthy occasion on and off the pitch in Budapest.
