In a commanding display, Portugal secured a resounding 5-2 victory over Sweden in a friendly match on Thursday. Manager Roberto Martinez opted to rest Cristiano Ronaldo and several other key players in preparation for the upcoming European Championship in Germany, slated to kick off in June.
Reflecting on the match, Martinez expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, particularly in defensive aspects. “It was a very important test for us. We worked on defensive concepts, I really liked the new links, the spirit, and the commitment was very good. But there are other concepts that we need to work on and improve,” Martinez remarked in an interview with Portuguese television RTP.
Portugal, who breezed through the Euro 2024 qualifiers with a flawless record of 10 wins, showcased their attacking prowess by opening up a three-goal lead in the first half. Rafael Leao initiated the scoring in the 24th minute with a spectacular strike into the top corner, followed by goals from Matheus Nunes and Bruno Fernandes.
Nunes, displaying exquisite skill, sliced through the Swedish defense to slot home a low strike, while Fernandes capitalized on a Nelson Semedo cross to tap in from close range just before halftime.
The second half saw substitute Bruma extend Portugal’s lead with a first-touch effort in the 57th minute, before Sweden’s Viktor Gyokeres pulled one back with a close-range finish. Goncalo Ramos further widened Portugal’s advantage with a clinical strike in the 62nd minute, before Sweden’s Gustaf Nilsson netted a consolation goal in stoppage time.
Despite the convincing win, Nunes acknowledged areas for improvement, particularly in defense. “It was a good game but we could have done better because we conceded two goals and we shouldn’t have,” Nunes remarked in an interview with Portuguese channel Sport TV.
Looking ahead to the European Championship, Nunes emphasized the importance of defensive solidity. “We want to go into the Euros strong and always try to keep a clean sheet. It’s easier to win when you don’t concede goals. That’s what we’re going to try to improve, to keep scoring a lot and not conceding,” he concluded.
Portugal’s commanding victory serves as a morale boost as they gear up for the highly anticipated European Championship, aiming to maintain their strong form and contend for the title.
