Ronaldo hits four as Portugal crush nine-man Andorra in WC qualifiers

Star striker Cristiano Ronaldo produced a scintillating performance as he smashed four goals in Portugal's crushing 6-0 victory over a nine-man Andorra in their World Cup qualifying clash in Aveiro last evening.

Portugal remained in possession throughout the match, with three of their six goals coming before the half-time.

Real Madrid star Ronaldo opened his side's account in the second minute before doubling the lead by heading home Ricardo Quaresma's cross just two minutes later, the Guardian reported.

Just a minute before the half time, defender Joao Cancelo pulled one back for the European Champions before Ronaldo completed the 42nd hat-trick of his career in the 47th minute.

Ronaldo found the net again in the 68th minute after Fonte headed Quaresma's cross into his path while Miguel Andre Silva also scored one goal for Portugal with a deflected shot in the 86th minute to pile further misery on Andorra.

Portugal will next lock horns with Faroe Islands on October 10.