Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick against Spain sets World Cup alight as Portugal match ends 3-3
Portuguese striker begins his bid for world cup glory in thrilling style in Sochi, leaving his opponents stunned.
Saturday 16 June 2018 07:34, UK
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat-trick against Spain, including a late equaliser, as their World Cup clash ended 3-3.
The Real Madrid forward opened his account with an early penalty before scoring again just before half-time in Sochi, Russia.
He completed his hat-trick with a wonder strike from a free-kick in the 88th minute.
Spain, , were seemingly heading towards victory after coming from behind twice to lead 3-2 with just minutes remaining.
Ronaldo, who became the first player to score in eight consecutive major tournaments, denied them right at the death.
The Real Madrid forward scored first from the penalty spot in the fourth minute before Diego Costa fired Spain level.
Spain goalkeeper David de Gea's error just before half-time handed Ronaldo his second of the match and Portugal the lead at half-time.
Spain manager Fernando Hierro, , was seemingly heading for a winning start to his reign until Ronaldo once again grabbed all the headlines.
He curled his 88th-minute free-kick over the wall and into the top corner to round off a night which saw Russia 2018 burst into life.