Cristiano Ronaldo hails 'unbelievable achievement' of reaching 200 Portugal caps

Portugal striker Cristiano Ronaldo said marking his 200th international appearance with the winner against Iceland in Euro 2024 qualifying on Tuesday was an "unbelievable achievement".

Portugal appeared to be heading towards a goalless draw in Reykjavik until Willum Thor Willumsson was sent off late on.

Al Nassr striker Ronaldo repaid coach Roberto Martinez's faith by slotting home from Goncalo Inacio's knock-down in the 89th minute.

The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star's record-extending 123rd international goal was initially ruled out for offside before being awarded by VAR.

“So happy. It's that kind of moment that you never expect to do it, 200 caps. For me it's an unbelievable achievement,” Ronaldo told Uefa's website. “Of course, to score the winning goal, it's even more special.”

Portugal remain two points clear of Slovakia at the top of Group J after a fourth straight win.

Slovakia, who are Portugal's next opponents in September, won 1-0 away to Liechtenstein to stay unbeaten.

Luxembourg gave their unlikely bid to reach a maiden major tournament a boost with a 2-0 away victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina to move third, just three points behind Slovakia.

The top two from each group qualify automatically for next year's finals in Germany.

Norway's Erling Haaland, front and Cyprus' Alex Gogic battle for the ball. AP

Manchester City's treble-winning striker Erling Haaland netted twice for Norway in a 3-1 win over Cyprus in Group A to get their campaign back on track after a shock 2-1 home defeat to Scotland in their previous game.

The win lifts the Norwegians to third in the five-team group on four points from four matches, behind second-placed Georgia on goal difference while Scotland, who are hosting