Portugal secures narrow 2-1 victory over Czech Republic in Nations League
Exciting encounter featuring own goal and late winner
Lisbon, Portugal (Sports Network) - Portugal earned a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic in the UEFA Nations League on Sunday at Estadio Jose Alvalade.
The match appeared to be heading for a draw after Patrik Provod's first-half goal was canceled out by an own goal from Matej Hranac in the 52nd minute. However, Joao Cancelo scored a dramatic winner for the hosts in the 89th minute.
The result moves Portugal two points clear of Spain atop Group B2, while the Czech Republic remains in third place with one point.
Portugal was the better team in the opening stages and Goncalo Guedes gave the hosts an early lead with a well-taken goal in the 19th minute. The visitors hit back 10 minutes later as Provod curled a shot into the top corner from the edge of the area.
Both teams had chances to win the match in the second half, but it was Portugal who eventually found a breakthrough. Cancelo's shot deflected off Hranac and into the net, handing the hosts a crucial victory.
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