Perfect Portugal dispatch FYROM

Portugal struck twice after half-time to inflict a 2-0 defeat on Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and extend their perfect record in 2015 UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying Group 8.

Having won their four previous matches in the section, Rui Jorge's side knew another victory would move them six points clear at the top. Despite controlling the game from the start, however, they had to wait to make their breakthrough, with Bernardo Silva registering on 51 minutes and Ricardo Esgaio soon following suit from the penalty spot.

The hosts rarely found themselves under pressure, yet they struggled to carve out chances in the opening half. Gonçalo Paciência missed an open goal with 18 minutes gone and Portugal toiled away until added time in the first period to threaten again, substitute Ricardo drawing a save from Stole Dimitrievski before Rúben Vezo hit the crossbar following a corner.

Bernardo Silva eventually opened the scoring when he turned in a Ricardo centre at the far post, and Ricardo Esgaio made sure of the result after Martin Blaževski had impeded João Mário in the area. Portugal won another penalty shortly afterwards, but this time Dimitrievski was able to deny Gonçalo Paciência.