Azeri captain Maksim Medvedev turned the ball into his own net on 36 minutes, but that was all Portugal could muster against their 108th-ranked opponents.
Portugal players are ecstatic after an Azerbaijan own goal on Wednesday. Pic/AFP
European champions Portugal got their 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign off to a winning start thanks to an Azerbaijan own goal in a tight 1-0 Group A victory here on Wednesday.
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Azeri captain Maksim Medvedev turned the ball into his own net on 36 minutes, but that was all Portugal could muster against their 108th-ranked opponents.
“We had some difficulties, some problems, it’s undeniable,” said Portugal coach Fernando Santos, after his 50th win in charge from 80 matches.
“In the second half, the team lacked inspiration and fluidity,” he added.
Cristiano Ronaldo failed to score at his club side’s Juventus Stadium—with the game on neutral ground due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.
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