Portsmouth loanee Gavin Bazunu threatens to ruin Cristiano Ronaldo's record-breaking night - only to suffer late, late heartbreak

Pompey loanee Gavin Bazunu thought he had spoiled Cristiano Ronaldo’s record-breaking bid.
Gavin Bazunu saved a first-half penalty from Cristiano Ronaldo in tonight's World Cup qualification match. Picture: AP Photo/Armando FrancaGavin Bazunu saved a first-half penalty from Cristiano Ronaldo in tonight's World Cup qualification match. Picture: AP Photo/Armando Franca
Gavin Bazunu saved a first-half penalty from Cristiano Ronaldo in tonight's World Cup qualification match. Picture: AP Photo/Armando Franca

Then the greatest international goalscorer of them all swooped at the death to inspire Portugal to a remarkable victory.

Requiring a goal to take his Portugal tally to 110, Ronaldo was denied by a brilliant penalty stop by Bazunu in the 15th minute of tonight’s encounter with the Republic of Ireland.

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Bazunu, who is on loan at Fratton Park from Manchester City for the season, dived to his right to superbly tip the striker’s spot kick round the post.

When John Egan netted on the stroke of half-time to give Stephen Kenny’s side the lead, it appeared something special was happening in the World Cup qualifier.

However, Ronaldo inevitably rode to Portugal’s rescue.

He levelled with an 89th minute header – before snatching victory in six minutes of time added on with his second of the game.

That took him to a staggering 111 goals for his country and ensured a 2-1 triumph when it appeared they were headed for defeat.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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