Portugal claimed a narrow 1-0 victory against Wales as they commence their UEFA Nations League campaign for the year.
Joao Felix scored the only goal of the game, giving the Portuguese a deserved lead after the home side had created several early chances.
The victory also marked the start of Jorge Jesus’ reign as the Portuguese head coach, while Cristiano Ronaldo remained in the starting lineup as captain.
Portugal made the brighter start and quickly looked to put Wales under pressure. Ronaldo had an early opportunity in the 10th minute, but his left-footed effort from inside the area went wide.
Joao Felix also came close before eventually finding the breakthrough. The host continued to move the ball well around their opponent defence, with Nuno Mendes proving important on the left side.
The opening goal arrived in the 22nd minute. Nuno Mendes did well to get away from Ethan Ampadu before playing the ball into the middle for Joao Felix.
The forward took a touch before firing a right-footed shot from outside the box into the bottom corner which made it 1-0.
The goal was particularly significant because it became the first goal of the Jorge Jesus era with the Portugal national team.
Wales tried to respond after falling behind but struggled to test the goalkeeper Diogo Costa consistently who proved to be a stumbling block.
Ben Cabango had one of Wales’ better opportunities in the first half when he headed over the crossbar from an Ethan Ampadu delivery.
Portugal, meanwhile, continued to threaten, with Ruben Dias also heading over after a Bruno Fernandes cross from a corner.
Ronaldo remained involved in the host’s attacking play but could not add to his international goal record. The Al Nassr captain had another effort saved before the break.
Portugal went into half-time with a 1-0 lead, having created more attacking opportunities despite Wales keeping possession for long periods.
The Portuguese national team continued to control the game after the restart and looked for a second goal, but the Welshmen remained in the contest despite the scoreline.
Ronaldo thought he had found the net in the second half, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review. He was later substituted after 67 minutes, ending his involvement in the match.
The away side could not find a way through their opponent defence during the closing stages. The visitors finished without a shot on target, while the host had two efforts on target from their total attempts.
The final whistle confirmed a 1-0 win for Portugal, giving Jorge Jesus a winning start and three points in League A Group 4 against a solid Wales national team who were well organized.
Joao Felix was the match-winner after his 22nd-minute strike, while Nuno Mendes played a key role by providing the assist for the encounter.
Portugal will now turn their attention to their next Nations League fixture away to Norway on September 27 which won’t be an easy match for them.
Meanwhile, it is a different case for the Wales national team as they will be looking to make an instant bounce back in their upcoming games for the UEFA Nations League.
