Portugal qualify for 2022 World after Bruno Fernandes brace sinks North Macedonia

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Bruno Fernandes grabbed a brace as Portugal secured a 2-0 victory over North Macedonia on Tuesday to qualify for the 2022 World Cup finals.

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The Manchester United midfielder scored a goal in each half as Portugal booked their place to Qatar later this year.

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The result sees Portugal qualify for the World Cup for a sixth consecutive time. It is likely to be Cristiano Ronaldo's last for his country although he dismissed reports of retirement before the playoff.

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"Goal accomplished,'' Ronaldo said on Instagram after the match. "We made it to the World Cup in Qatar. We are where we deserve to be.''

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Macedonia were unable to replicate their shock win over European champions Italy but gave a good account of themselves throughout the 90 minutes.

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"This win will remain in a special place for me because we have achieved our aim," Fernandes said in his postmatch interview. "That was the most important thing. I think Portugal played better.

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"We've had better performances, but this is one of the highlights because it guarantees access to the World Cup.

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"The main goal is to aid the team. I'm here to help, not score. If I can assist with goals, I will. Everyone enjoys scoring. But my main goal is to assist. That's what I've done in the past."

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After 22 minutes, Fernandes intercepted a poor pass in midfield, exchanged passes with Ronaldo, and finished well into the corner.

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