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Europe

Portugal edges Wales 1-0 in Nations League opener

Joao Felix's goal secures Portugal's first Nations League win in Lisbon.

New York Editorial News Desk September 24, 2026 1 min read

The Brief

  • Joao Felix scored the only goal with a deflected shot.
  • Portugal dominated possession but missed multiple chances.
  • Cristiano Ronaldo was ruled offside after a late shot.

Joao Felix netted the decisive goal for Portugal in their Nations League opener against Wales, securing a 1-0 home victory. The goal came after 22 minutes when Felix's low shot deflected off Wales captain Ben Davies and into the net.

Portugal controlled the match, outshooting Wales 19-4, but squandered numerous scoring opportunities. Bruno Fernandes acknowledged the missed chances, stating the team 'had a lot of chances but were not capable of scoring more.'

Cristiano Ronaldo, who has scored 146 international goals, was a focal point for Portugal but failed to convert his chances. He was ruled offside after a late shot and was substituted seven minutes later, after which Portugal's play declined.

Wales came close to equalizing twice in the final minutes, with Brennan Johnson hitting the crossbar and Lewis Koumas missing a rebound. Wales midfielder Ethan Ampadu expressed disappointment with the missed chances, calling them 'a couple of chances at the end where we could’ve got a goal.'

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