One of Europe’s most dangerous teams in front of goal was really tested as Portugal needed a second wind to beat Liechtenstein.
After dominating the first half, none of the stars on the pitch found a way to beat goalkeeper Benjamin Büchel, who was at his peak.
But whatever was said at half-time lit a fire under the visitors and the Portugal big man was there to save the day.
Cristiano Ronaldo, 38, fired into the box and ricocheted home from a tight angle, only to see the ball drop perfectly into the far corner.
João Cancelo later doubled the lead after rounding the keeper, creating space and curling home.
The home side had just three shots to Portugal’s 27, but they can certainly hold their heads high as they largely kept their opponents frustrated for 90 minutes.
Roberto Martinez’s men top their group with nine wins from nine, while Liechtenstein are bottom of the group.
Portugal Player Rating
José Sa (6/10): He made a smart stop to maintain his team’s 2-0 lead. Otherwise, he did not participate.
Antonio Silva (6/10): Nowhere to be found on Liechtenstein’s only chance. He managed to keep the ball moving.
Ruben Neves (6/10): A makeshift centre-back on a day when his team didn’t have much to defend.
Toti Gomes (6/10): A solid debut, even if he had very little to do.
Diogo Jota (7/10): Maybe misused on the left, but still things happened. Ronaldo opening assist. Much more comfortable when moved to the center position.
Bruno Fernandes (6/10): He created two chances, turning them into dangerous passes for Ronaldo and Ramos. Visibly frustrated after the odd mistake. Basically a typical performance.
Bernardo Silva (5/10): Lively as ever on the ball, yet never found the killer pass. Deservedly removed after an hour.
Joao Cancelo (6/10): Lots of quality off the dribble but his passing was off at times. He redeemed himself with a beautiful finish for second place in Portugal.
Joao Felix (5/10): He started slowly but looked much livelier as his side took control of the contest after the break. Nevertheless, after an emphatic start to the season, he slowed down.
Goncalo Ramos (4/10): Given his chance to regain form while leading the line. He missed a free header after 30 minutes and was trying to do too much. A goal was disallowed. Off the pace at the moment.
Cristiano Ronaldo (8/10): Towards the end of the first half, he shot twice at the goalkeeper. He didn’t make such a mistake in the second and managed his goal brilliantly.