A pitch invader was apprehended just before reaching Cristiano Ronaldo during Portugal’s 2-1 victory against Scotland in Lisbon on Sunday evening.

Ronaldo’s appearances in his native country often draw large audiences, as many packed the Benfica stadium to watch the 39-year-old compete in the UEFA Nations League.

The renowned striker scored his 901st career goal after coming off the bench for a late winner, prompting one fan to leap onto the pitch in an attempt to be closer to Ronaldo.

Several plucky Ronaldo supporters attempted to enter the pitch during Portugal’s Euro 2024 match against Turkey earlier this summer, prompting many stewards to rush onto the pitch at various occasions.

Clearly, this fan had not learnt the lesson of others who stormed onto the pitch of play and got within metres of Ronaldo before being wiped out by security.

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Cristiano Ronaldo watched on as a pitch invader tried to reach him in Portugal’s 2-1 win over Scotland

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A steward desperately holds onto the pitch invader who got within metres of Ronaldo

The guy failed on his first try when his pursuer fell as Ronaldo led a Portugal attack with the hosts aiming to run the clock down in the game.

He was then dragged in by the recovering security guard, who held on to the fan’s shirt acrobatically while Ronaldo gazed on, having witnessed this type of exchange before.

Portugal later restarted play with a corner, and their triumph was sealed when the referee blew the full-time whistle.

After the game, Portugal manager Roberto Martinez praised his match-winner while explaining his decision to start Ronaldo on the bench.

‘The question was whether Ronaldo played the first half and left or came in and finished the game. That was the decision,’ said Martinez.

‘He is an asset to the national team. When he comes in, if the scorer needs goals, Cris gives energy and a feeling to the fans, the stadium is different. 

‘If Cris leaves, it’s the opposite and facilitates what the opponent would like to do when playing away from home in Portugal. But the important thing is the commitment of all the players. 

‘The players believe in what they can give or do for the National Team and are prepared for it. Cristiano, as captain, was exemplary,’ he added.