FIFA World Cup 2014: Ronaldo’s magic rescues Portugal, Algeria thrash Korea

New Delhi: It was proving to be a tough match for Portugal, before their captain Cristiano Ronaldo came to their rescue against United States, while Belgium earned a hard-fought 1-0 win against Russia to enter the last-16 from group H.

Portugal will now have to defeat Ghana by a big margin in their last group league game hoping that the match between United States and Germany doesn`t end in a draw, in order to qualify for the Round of 16. While Germany and the US are on four points, Portugal and Ghana have a point each.

Despite getting an early lead in the fifth minute, the Portugal fans faced several anxious moments before Ronaldo`s left-footed pass was converted into a goal by substitute striker Silvestre Varela, with just 30 seconds remaining.

Meanwhile, in the first match of the day, young substitute Divock Origi made full use of a beautiful pass from Chelsea star Eden Hazard in the 88th minute, as Belgium defeated Russia 1-0 making it to the last 16 of the World Cup for the first time since Italia`90.

While Belgium had to struggle for their win, Algeria defeated South Korea convincingly. Algeria took a huge lead of 3-0 in the first half and even though the Koreans fought back by scoring two goals in the second half, Algeria won their best match in World Cup history 4-2.

After their comprehensive victory, Algeria are ranked second in Group H behind Belgium, with Russia and the Koreans trailing on one point apiece.