Ronaldo header gives Portugal 1-0 win over hosts Russia

Cristiano Ronaldo has been honoured with a large mural with his image in the Russian city of Kazan, but it was painted on the facade of a private building that is only visible to hotel guests where Portugal’s team is staying for the Confederations Cup football tournament.

Tom Rogic and Tomi Juric each tallied for the Aussies.

Mexico controlled possession and spent more time in Portugal’s area, but the Euro 2016 champions were a constant threat on the counterattack in front of 34,372 fans at the Kazan Arena.

“We need to keep believing in ourselves, we know we have a great chance”. The Russians top Group A after beating the All Whites 2-0 on Saturday.

Their superb first-half display rattled Mexico and a tense match boiled over with a mass brawl in the dying stages. In fact, his first worldwide goal came at Euro 2004, when Luis Figo set him up in stoppage time against Greece. A decision on approval is due in March.

Ronaldo passed up a glorious opportunity to extend his side’s lead just past the hour when he headed wide from Andre Gomes’ cross as Portugal broke at pace.

Mexico coach Juan Carlos Osorio says the team is evolving and ultimately preparing for a time when Rafa Marquez is no longer available after not using the captain over the last three competitive games.

With the Kiwis’ tails up, Wood could have grabbed a second when he again got in behind the defence, but failed to control the ball as they took a one-goal lead into the break.

‘The VAR tests used during this Confederations Cup are also helping us to improve the processes and fine-tune communication.

Count Chile’s Vidal among the current skeptics.

Nani was already celebrating with his teammates when Argentine referee Nestor Pitana asked for the ball and indicated the goal was being reviewed.

Ronaldo was also involved in one of the game’s biggest talking points, a “goal” that was disallowed after consultation with the Video Assistant Referees.

The Mexicans came out firing in the second half and should have leveled matters in the 49th minute but Giovani Dos Santos blazed over from close range.

Cedric Soares’ 86th-minute shot was deflected in as Portugal appeared to be heading for three points, but Hector Moreno was able to snatch a point for the mexicans in the 91st minute.

“It’s the new rule, and if it brings benefits to football, that’s fine”, Portugal coach Fernando Santos said.