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2. Cristiano Ronaldo vs Spain (Group Stage)
Ronaldo's performance against one of the pre-tournament favorites Spain certainly kicked off the tournament in true sense. Spain and Portugal started their much awaited campaigns at the Fisht Stadium, Sochi. Early into the encounter a foul in the box from Ronaldo's Real Madrid team mate Nacho, gave the former the chance to put Portugal in front from the spot. Just before half time, Ronaldo scored a left footed strike from outside the box to take the lead against the La Rojas. Spain came back from 2-1 down to take a 3-2 lead heading into the final few minutes.
With Portugal still trailing with two minutes to go, the Ballon d’or holder scored an exquisite free kick over the wall to equalize and helped his team get a point from the fixture. This display from which Portugal gained a point proved crucial in their progress to the second round. This hat trick also gave him an early advantage in the golden boot race, which he eventually squandered.
