Cristiano Ronaldo delivered when it mattered most, calmly converting a 74th-minute penalty to separate the two heavyweights. The 41-year-old showed nerves of steel after a handball decision went Portugal’s way in a fiercely contested Group D fixture.

Brazil pressed hard in the closing stages, yet Portugal’s compact shape and quick transitions kept the five-time champions at bay. With both sides now tied on points, the remaining two group matches promise even greater drama as they fight for top spot.

Ronaldo’s composure under pressure once again proved the difference in a match defined by tactical discipline and moments of individual brilliance.