Cristiano Ronaldo did not have much to say about his fitness following the 5-1 thrashing of Ireland in New Jersey. While on his way through the press area, however, he did have time to blurt out what many were eager to hear without breaking stride: "I'm 99.9% fit." The best player in the world in 2013 allayed doubts with a pressure-free performance showing that a huge weight has been lifted from his shoulders. It was Portugal's last fixture before heading to their World Cup base in Campinas, Brazil.

Although Ronaldo was diagnosed with chronic tendinitis only last week, he made a sparkling return to the team.

Coach Paulo Bento had exercised caution in previous weeks by announcing that there was no fixed return date for Portugal's biggest star.

But there was. Cristiano strutted his stuff against a limp Ireland team. His delicious back-heel eventually led to the second goal which, combined with his various efforts on goal, including a shot which rattled the post, constituted his cover letter for his so-desired starting berth in the World Cup opener against Germany on 16th June.