Portugal’s 6-0 win over Lithuania in Euro 2020 qualifying last night wasn’t enough to ensure their place in the finals just yet, as Serbia’s win over Luxembourg keeps them within striking distance for the second automatic qualification place in Group B.
However, it was a very special night at Faro-Loule’s Algarve Stadium for Wolves forward Diogo Jota, who came on to make his senior national team debut for Fernando Santos’ side.
The 22-year-old was introduced in the 83rd minute of the match for Cristiano Ronaldo, whose hat-trick took him to 98 international goals.
Jota had been in the Portuguese senior squad for previous Euro 2020 qualifiers earlier this year, while also being included in the squad that won the UEFA Nations League in June, but had to wait until last night to make his first senior appearance at international level. [via TransferMarkt]
He has been a regular presence in Wolves’ line-up this season, with 18 appearances in all competitions during the current campaign in which he has scored four goals and set up another five. [via TransferMarkt]
These Wolves fans on Twitter were thrilled to see the winger being given his senior Portugal debut, with some suggesting tongue-in-cheek that he is an upgrade on Ronaldo:
Just CR7 hugging his idol🐺😉🧡🖤
— Tomm Hughes – Wolves STH (@TomHughes795) November 14, 2019
one of the worlds best footballers is substituted for Cristiano Ronaldo
— Harry Hathaway (@hhatha304) November 14, 2019
The best player in the world being subbed on for Cristiano Ronaldo
— Brad Bagnall (@bagnall_brad) November 14, 2019
At long last. Well deserved @DiogoJota18
— Gaelle Holford (@GaelleHolford) November 14, 2019
Congratulations Diogo. Well deserved full international debut
— Julian Kear (@julianholigan) November 14, 2019
Congratulations Diogo,fully deserved 👏👍🐺🧡🖤⚽️💥
— Phil Stokes (@PhilStokes10) November 14, 2019
Go on Diogo 👊
— Chris Sheen (@Sheenywolves) November 14, 2019
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Wolves fans, how happy were you to see Jota make his Portugal debut? Do you think he could be in their Euro 2020 squad if they make it to the finals? Comment below with your views!
