31st August, 2017
Photo: BBC/EPA
Real Madrid forward Ronaldo scored his 48th career hat-trick – and his fifth for his country – as Portugal beat the Faroe Islands 5-1 to strengthen their grip on the play-off spot in Group B.
He also moved clear of former Ukraine striker Andriy Shevchenko to become the highest European scorer in World Cup qualifying matches, taking his total to 29.
His first was his best, a stunning third-minute bicycle kick following a right-wing cross from Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva.
BBC Sports reports that Norwich forward Nelson Oliveira also scored for Portugal, who remain three points behind group leaders Switzerland, 3-0 winners over Andorra.
Hungary remain third, eight points behind Portugal with three matches remaining, after beating Latvia 3-1.