Portugal started their campaign with a dramatic victory over Ghana, and Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score at five different Fifa World Cups.
For the first time since his contentious television interview last week and his subsequent release by Manchester United as a result of the statements, Ronaldo was in action.
And the 37-year-old scored the game’s first goal from the penalty spot after Southampton defender Mohammed Salisu of Ghana tripped him in the box.
Early on, Captain Ronaldo had a number of opportunities, but Lawrence Ati-Zigi stopped a low attempt and he also headed wide of the far post.
The forward’s goal was overturned for pushing Alexander Djiku, as Ghana failed to register a single shot from the other end.
The Africans improved in the second period as Mohammed Kudus drilled narrowly wide of the far post and got their reward when Andre Ayew equalised from close range.
But Portugal responded with two goals in two minutes to seal the points – Joao Felix converting a delightfully clipped finish and substitute Rafael Leao coolly stroking in just seconds after coming on.
Osman Bukhari headed in a late consolation for Ghana and there could have been real drama in the ninth minute of stoppage time.
Goalkeeper Diogo Costa put the ball down, seemingly unaware Inaki Williams was behind him, but after racing to intercept the ball, the Ghana forward slipped at the crucial moment and a scuffed shot was cleared off the line.
Victory means Portugal top Group H after Uruguay and South Korea played out a goalless draw earlier on Thursday.
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