Diogo Dalot scored at both ends for Portugal in their victory over Croatia, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring the winner.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s 900th career goal made the difference as Portugal narrowly defeated Croatia 2-1.
While Ronaldo’s goal grabbed the headlines, it was Diogo Dalot who opened the scoring after Bruno Fernandes picked out his run into the centre.
Even though Dalot was later credited with an own goal, manager Roberto Martinez was full of credit for his performance.
Roberto Martinez on Diogo Dalot
Speaking after the UEFA Nations League clash, manager Roberto Martinez told O Jogo that he was very pleased with the Manchester United full-back.
Martinez explained how he had been trialling new tactical approaches in training, and was pleased to see Dalot grasping them so quickly.
The manager said: “It makes a difference that we have different options and we can execute them after three training sessions. There is work and continuity. Dalot and Semedo can play inside and outside.
“Croatia had difficulties with the breaks inside that Dalot executed very well.
“I really liked Dalot, the principle of play hasn’t changed. He’s fantastic and speaks volumes about the players, it’s not easy to have these tactical concepts in three training sessions.”
Dalot in usual right-back role
This season at Manchester United, Diogo Dalot has had to fill in at the left-back position due to Luke Shaw being out injured.
Dalot is a competent left-back, but the right-side is his natural position, and this match was useful for him to return to action in his preferred role.
The defender created one goalscoring chance, scored from his only shot, and had 56 touches in total.
Portugal face Scotland next, with Dalot and Fernandes set to be reunited with former teammate Scott McTominay, who scored in his country’s 3-2 loss to Poland.
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