Medvedev’s own goal the difference as Portugal beat Azerbaijan 1-0, open their account

Portugal opened their World Cup Qualification campaign with a 1-0 victory over Azerbaijan last night in Turin.

It was an own goal from Medvedev that was the difference between the two sides on the sides.

But it could have been a lot different had the Azerbaijan goalkeeper, Mahammadaliyev not come to the rescue of the away last night.

Mahammadaliyev made a record 14 saves during last night’s encounter to keep the Portuguese at bay throughout.

Santos’ side had numerous chances to score, but Mahammadaliyev was able to keep out efforts from Ruben Neves, Cancelo, Bernardo Silva, Fernandes and Ronaldo at bay.

Portugal enjoyed possession throughout proceedings with Azerbaijan on the backfoot. The away side could not muster a single shot on target.

The Azerbaijan side kept absorbing the pressure from the Portuguese until the 37^th minute, when they conceded.

It was a comical own goal to say the least as Mahammadaliyev cleared the cross, but punched the ball into the right-back, Medvedev. The ball then trickled into the back of the net with nobody to stop it.

Azerbaijan was desperately unlucky but with the continuous shots from the Portuguese, they were due for a goal on the night.

Nuriyev missed the only opportunity for Azerbaijan late in the piece as he blazed the ball over the crossbar.

Mahammadaliyev made the best save of the night from Bruno Fernandes’ shot by flying to deny the substitute a sure goal.

If not for the goalkeeper, this would have been one of the most embarrassing nights for Azerbaijan.