The under-21 national team beat Croatia 5-1, in a qualifying game for the European Championship, played this Tuesday, March 26, at the São Luís Stadium, in Faro.
After the 4-0 victory against the Faroe Islands last Thursday, Rui Jorge’s men returned to the field today, but showed better football.
The first goal was scored in the 3rd minute by Fábio Silva, after a good play by Pedro Santos. The Benfica B midfielder would score the 2nd in the 11th minute, following an inattention from a Croatian defender who placed the ball at the feet of Pedro Santos.
Portugal seemed well on their way to victory, but still suffered a scare in the 15th minute. Samuel Soares was fouled after a corner and Ljubičić, with panenka, reduced it to 2-1.
Still, Croatian hopes were short-lived. Pedro Santos scored twice in the 23rd minute and captain Paulo Bernardo made it 4-1, in the 25th minute.
In the second half, there was only one goal: Fábio Silva, after winning a penalty, converted it and closed the final result.
Portugal leaves this double round in the Algarve with two victories and six points collected.
The team occupies 1st place, with 18 points and 7 games, and seems well on its way to participating in the finals in Slovakia.
Tags: Portugal defeats Croatia Faro closer Under21 European Championship
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