Sensational Ronaldo scores Hattrick, Protugal clinchs 3-3 draw against Spain

  • Ronaldo scores hat-trick and Costa scores a brace

  • High-scoring game was absolute thriller

Ronaldo adds 3 sensational goals to take his international tally to 84, as Portugal  clinches a 3-3 draw against Spain in the opener of their group league match. The match tilted either way, as 2010 World Champion, were trailing twice in the game and then leading till 86th minute of the game, before CR7 equalised from a stunning free kick.

Earlier Spain team, which is embroiled to coach controversy, controlled the game from the beginning, but looked vulnerable against brisk and effective counter attack  which opened the first opportunity. Nacho tripped Ronaldo just inside the penalty box, in the opening moments of the game, which earned Portugal a penalty. Referee confirmed several key on-field decisions with VAR (Video Assistant Referee System), including this one. Ronaldo placed it far right corner of the post to score first goal. De-Gea, the Manchester United Goalkeeper, who had a bad day under the bar, dove in the other direction.

Diego Costa equalised from a long ball at 24th minute, dribbling two Portuguese defender. Referee went for a VAR to confirm if Costa committed a foul on Pepe, while receiving the ball.

Ronaldo scored his second goal from a counter attack minute before Half-time. David de gea let the grounder in, as he failed to deal with a straight and low shot. At 55th minute of the game, Diego Costa stuck again, as he snatch the ball in. Within minutes Nacho scored his first, as Spain lead for the first time in the game. Powerful right footer from a distance bent and went in, before hitting the right post, Rui Patricio did not have any chance.

With five minutes to complete the Full time, Portugal was awarded a free-lick outside Spain box, when Pique tapped Ronaldo. Portuguese captained scored his third to equalise the match.

All Goals and Best Moments

Man of the Match: Cristiano Ronaldo