Qatar World Cup 2022: Ronaldo sends strong message after Portugal beat Turkey in play-offs

Cristiano Ronaldo's crusade to reach in a fifth World Cup moved a step closer to reality as Portugal scraped past Turkey but not without a serious scare on Thursday night.

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Legendary striker Cristiano Ronaldo's bid to reach his fifth World Cup received a massive boost after Portugal beat Turkey 3-1 on Thursday at their play-offs in Porto, but not without a serious scare.

Portugal appeared to be cruising through when they went up in the first half, thanks to goals from Diogo Jota and Otavio. However, veteran Burak Yilmaz pulled one back for Turkey and presented a golden chance to equalise from a penalty in the 85th minute.

Unfortunately for the Turks, and perhaps fortunately for Ronaldo's Portugal, Yilmaz missed the target, and Matheus Nunes scored the third goal for the home side in the final seconds.

Although goals and glory eluded Ronaldo during this crucial play-off, Portugals move into the final of the Path C play-offs has given the 37-year-old a much-needed burst of motivation.

Following the 3-1 win, Ronaldo took to Instagram to send his teammates and Portugal fans a strong message. "The first step has been taken towards our great objective, towards the 2022 World Cup," wrote the veteran striker.

"Nothing is won; nothing is achieved. We have to continue to work in a serious and focused way, respecting the opponent but always believing in our abilities. Power Portugal! Go to Qatar!" Ronaldo, who earned his 185th international cap in the game, concluded.

Portugal will face North Macedonia, who knocked out European champions Italy on Thursday, in perhaps the biggest upset in the road to Qatar so far. Portugal won't underestimate North Macedonia, but fans will secretly be relieved it is not Italy they are facing. The final will be held in Portugal on Sunday night, with the winner booking a place in Qatar 2022.