Jonny Evans

By Chris
September 8 2013

Jonny Evans and Nani squared off in a thrilling World Cup qualification encounter in Belfast, where Portugal came from behind to claim a 4-2 victory. Former United winger Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed a late hat-trick to deny the Ulstermen a famous result.

Evans played the full 90 minutes, whilst Nani was introduced as a 55th-minute substitute, as Portugal claimed all three points in a six-goal thriller at Windsor Park.

Bruno Alves gave the visitors the lead with a volley, before goals from Gareth McAuley and Jamie Ward turned the game on its head as Michael O’Neill’s men sensed an upset.

However, Ronaldo stole the show with a quick-fire hat-trick with two headers and a free-kick both eluding ex-United stopper Roy Carroll.  

Referee Danny Makkelie brandished no fewer than three red cards during the game – with Helder Postiga given his marching orders at 1-1, before Chris Brunt and substitute Kyle Lafferty were dismissed.

The result leaves Portugal top of Group F, two points ahead of Russia who have a game in hand. Northern Ireland will be eager to bounce back from their defeat on Tuesday with a big win in Luxembourg.