​Fernando Santos left Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench, and his replacement proved that the coach made the right decision: Gonzalo Ramos scored three goals and Portugal reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup in Qatar (6-1 against Switzerland).

Gonzalo RamosPhoto: Mike Egerton / PA Images / Profimedia

Gonzalo Ramos, the first hat-trick after the World Cup in Qatar

The Benfica striker scored in the 17th, 51st and 67th minutes, Pepe (’33), Guerreiro (’55, Ramos pass) and Leao (’90+2) also scored.

The goal in Switzerland was scored by Akanji (’58).

Entering the field in the 73rd minute, Ronaldo scored once, but the success was not confirmed: the Lusitanian started the phase with a clear offside.

Know:

  • It was the first time since Euro 2004 that Cristiano Ronaldo was not in the starting line-up for Portugal’s decisive match, barring injury or suspension.
  • For reaching the semi-finals of the final tournament in Qatar, Portugal will play against Morocco. The match will take place on Saturday, from 17:00, at the Al-Tumama stadium.

World Cup 2022 Qatar, quarter-finals

  • Friday, December 9

Croatia – Brazil (Education City Stadium – Doha, 17:00)

Netherlands – Argentina (Lusail Stadium – Al Daayen, 21:00)

  • Saturday, December 10

Morocco – Portugal (Al Toumama Stadium – Doha, 17:00)

France – England (Al Beit Stadium – Al Khor, 21:00).