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A positive Covid-19 test ruled out the Juventus star from Wednesday’s game against Sweden, but the Man Utd man says they can do just fine without him.
Bruno Fernandes says Portugal did not change their style of play to make up for Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence against Sweden, but admits that the 3-0 victory would have been even easier if “the best in the world” could have played.
Ronaldo was unable to appear at Wednesday’s Nations League match in Lisbon after he tested positive for Covid-19 and was isolated.
But Fernando Santos’s men did well without him, as Bernardo Silva gave them the upper hand when Diogo Jota found him in a dangerous position.
Jota went on to score two of his own to ensure Portugal remains top of their group, tied on points with France.
Fernandes says he felt business as usual despite not having the Juventus star leading the attack.
“They didn’t ask us to play differently [without Ronaldo], our ambition remains the same, “the Manchester United midfielder told reporters.
“The team has great values but it is obvious that it is easier to win with the best in the world.”
Jota scored his first goal just before half-time when he knocked down a cross from Joao Cancelo before crushing Robin Olsen.
With 18 minutes remaining on the clock, the 23-year-old broke the wing and entered before sending in his team’s third, and was proud of himself for playing such a key role for his country.
“It was an excellent night, one of my best performances,” said Jota. “Represent my country for the second time and do a performance like this? It was a great result against Sweden and it was not easy. We can be proud.
“Pressure to replace Ronaldo? No, we are professionals and if the coach chooses 11 players to take them to the field, those are the ones who have to work ”.
Jota joined Liverpool from Wolves last month in a deal worth £ 41 million ($ 53 million) and has one goal in two Premier League appearances for the reigning champions.
And he’s happy that everything is going well for both the club and the national team at this time.
“I think [moving to Liverpool] It was the highest moment of my career and today I started again in the national team. I have to do my best, “he added.
