Portugal Thrash Poland in World Cup Qualifier

Ronaldo's Brace Helps Portugal Secure Big Win

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice and assisted another as Portugal thrashed Poland 5-0 in a World Cup qualifier on Thursday.

The victory puts Portugal top of Group E, two points ahead of Poland, who have a game in hand.

Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 33rd minute, heading home a cross from Joao Cancelo.

He then doubled Portugal's lead in the 53rd minute, tapping in a rebound after Robert Lewandowski had saved his initial effort.

Rafael Leao made it 3-0 in the 65th minute, finishing off a fine team move.

Bruno Fernandes added a fourth in the 74th minute, curling a stunning effort into the top corner.

Substitute Joao Palhinha completed the scoring in the 81st minute, heading home a corner from Ronaldo.

The win was a morale-boosting one for Portugal, who had lost their previous two matches.

It also marked Ronaldo's 116th goal for Portugal, moving him one ahead of Iran's Ali Daei as the all-time international goalscorer.

Ronaldo was the star of the show for Portugal, scoring twice and providing an assist.

The 36-year-old is still one of the best players in the world and he showed his class against Poland.

Ronaldo's first goal was a typical header, with the forward rising highest to meet Cancelo's cross.

His second was more opportunistic, as he pounced on a rebound to tap home.

Ronaldo also played a key role in Portugal's third goal, with his pass finding Leao in space.

Poland were disappointing against Portugal and they never really looked like winning the game.

The Poles were without their star striker, Robert Lewandowski, who was injured.

But even without Lewandowski, Poland should have done better against a Portugal team that was missing several key players.

The win puts Portugal in control of Group E.

The Portuguese are now two points ahead of Poland, who have a game in hand.

Portugal will now be confident of qualifying for the World Cup, especially with Ronaldo in such good form.