WC qualifiers: Ronaldo's brace helps Portugal outplay Hungary 3-0

Star striker Cristiano Ronaldo struck two goals as Portugal hammered Hungary 3-0 in their Group B clash of the World Cup qualifying event at the Estadio da Luz here on Sunday.

Portugal remained in possession throughout the match, with forward Andre Silva putting the home side ahead in the 32nd minute of the match.

Just four minutes later, Ronaldo doubled his side's lead before the skipper made it 15 goals in 14 appearances with a fine free-kick after the break to safeguard the points,goal.com reported.

Although Hungary captain Balazs Dzsudzsak did responded with his side's first effort on target in the 67th minute of the match, the Bernd Storck-led side looked firmly resigned to their second defeat of the group.

With the win, Portugal have now surged back to within three points of leaders Switzerland, who defeated Albania 1-0 in their last match.

Meanwhile, Hungary stand five points behind at the third spot with five matches remaining in hand.

Portugal will now prepare for Tuesday's friendly against Sweden knowing that their chances of reaching FIFA World Cup 2018 in Russia is still firmly in their own hands.