Ronaldo scores, Portugal still loses to Sweden

The Portuguese captain scored the opening goal but had to watch Sweden come back to win 3-2 in a friendly match on the evening of March 28.

This was a meaningful match for Ronaldo as he returned to play against his hometown Madeira. The 32-year-old striker opened the scoring for Portugal with a close-range tap-in after a pass from Gelson on the right wing.

Ronaldo and Gelson continued to contribute to Portugal's second goal in the first half. Ronaldo passed the ball to Gelson who made a cross that caused Sweden captain Granqvist to fumble and score an own goal.

Leading by two goals in the first half, Portugal seemed certain to win, but Sweden made a comeback in the second half. Midfielder Claesson scored twice to equalize for the visitors, both from tight angles on the right flank.

In the final seconds of the match, defender Cancelo scored an own goal against Portugal after Hult's cross, helping Sweden win dramatically.

Sweden made Ronaldo's return to Madeira less than joyful. Photo: Reuters.

Portugal's defeat came before Ronaldo had an airport named after him in Madeira. In his homeland, Ronaldo has a statue, a museum and a hotel named after him.

This was Ronaldo's first match in Madeira for Portugal. The Real Madrid striker also brought the Euro 2016 trophy to show his hometown people before the match.

Portugal and Sweden are tied for second place in their 2018 World Cup qualifying group after five matches.

According to VNE