Not Bruno Fernandes – 4 long balls, 3 ground duels, 1 goal: “Dream” United star proved his national team boss right

Bruno Fernandes, Manchester United’s midfield maestro, dazzled in Portugal’s 5-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina during a UEFA Euro Qualifier match.

Fernandes, donning the captain’s armband, played for 79 minutes and also etched his name on the scoresheet. His goal marked Portugal’s third of the game, following an incredible brace by Cristiano Ronaldo within the first 25 minutes.

Additionally, Barcelona’s Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix contributed goals in the first half, cementing Portugal’s dominance and making the second period a mere formality.

During his time on the pitch for the national team, Fernandes displayed his influence with 54 touches of the ball. He executed 35 successful passes out of 43 attempts, resulting in an 81% pass success rate.

The playmaking midfielder also made three attempts to deliver crosses, succeeding once. Moreover, he showcased his precision with long balls, attempting six and successfully connecting four times.

In a near-miss, Fernandes couldn’t convert a significant scoring opportunity, failing to make clean contact with the ball on a fantastic cross from his United teammate Diogo Dalot.

The United skipper engaged in four ground duels and emerged victorious in three of them. Aerial challenges weren’t necessary during the game.

Fernandes made a vital clearance and contributed defensively with two well-executed tackles to thwart any potential threats from Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Portugal’s manager, Roberto Martinez, has previously lauded Fernandes as a “dream player” for his intelligence and attacking prowess, underlining the footballer’s significant impact on the field.

With his international duties fulfilled, Fernandes now shifts his focus back to Manchester United and their upcoming Premier League fixture against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.