Agency
Portugal striker Ricardo Horta grabbed a late equaliser to earn his side a 1-1 draw with Spain in their Nations League opener at Estadio Benito Villamarin on Thursday.
According to Reuters, Alvaro Morata had given Spain the lead but Horta’s goal ensured the great rivals drew for the fourth time in a row. Portugal have not won a competitive game against Spain since 2004 and have never beaten them on Spanish soil.
“It tastes good because Spain is strong and we were playing away. It was a good result for Portugal,” Reuters quoted midfielder Bernardo Silva as saying.
Spain made a lively start in the League A Group Two match when midfielder Gavi had a chance from outside the box in the third minute but his effort was blocked.
Portugal defender Pepe did well to stop midfielder Carlos Soler who was through on goal after receiving a precise low pass.
Morata put Spain ahead from close range following a fine passing movement involving midfielders Gavi and Pablo Sarabia in the 25th minute.
Substitute Horta equalised for Portugal eight minutes from time, leaving the Spanish defence behind as he latched on to a precise cross from defender Joao Cancelo inside the area and placed a shot into the middle of Simon’s goal, the news agency further reported.
Spain and Portugal will meet again on September 27, in their last group fixture.
