Cristiano Ronaldo set a World Cup record when he scored a penalty against Ghana in their Group H opener.
Ronaldo becomes the first player to score in five different FIFA World Cups.
The exciting encounter ended 3-2 in favor of Portugal to send them to the top of Group H.
Ronaldo left Manchester United this week by mutual consent after his controversial interview with Piers Morgan.
On the pitch, Ronaldo was not phased by all the attention his interview had brought him as he captained his side to victory.
History was made when he dusted himself up after being tripped in the box by Mohammed Salisu to score the penalty.
A dominant display in the early stages saw Portugal peg Ghana in their own half.
Portugal created chances with Ronaldo’s low shot smothered by Lawrence Ati-Zigi. Moments later he headed wide at the far post.
The 37-year-old had a goal disallowed for pushing Alexander Djiku. Ghana did not have a single shot in the first half.
On resumption of the second half, Ghana improved in their attacking play and got a goal. Mohammed Kudus penetrated wide of the far post and got their reward when Andre Ayew equalised from close range.
Portugal responded with two goals in two minutes to seal the 3 points. Joao Felix converting a delightfully clipped finish and substitute Rafael Leao coolly stroking in just seconds after coming on.
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Ghana could have levelled
Portugal had to survive a nervy finale after Osman Bukhari headed home Ghana’s second goal in the 89th minute.
Ghana had a golden opportunity to level in the 10th minute of stoppage time. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa put the ball down, unaware Inaki Williams was behind him. The forward lost his footing at the crucial moment and scuffed his shot.
Portugal top Group H after Uruguay and South Korea played out a goalless draw earlier on Thursday.
