No Cristiano Ronaldo, no finishing ability! Brilliant Joao Felix dazzles but much-changed Portugal, without Bruno Fernandes and Al-Nassr superstar, held by stern Croatia

Joao Felix’s brilliance was canceled out by Josko Guardiol’s tenacity as Portugal and Croatia played out a thrilling 1-1 draw on Monday night.

Portugal made seven changes from the team that beat Poland 5-1 at the weekend, but they looked to have more than enough to see off the Croatians early on.

The outstanding Felix gave the visitors a deserved lead in the 33rd minute when he beautifully controlled Vitinha’s raking pass before ripping the ball through the legs of Dominik Livakovic.

Andrej Kramaric fired a warning shot to Portugal as his effort cannoned off the post, followed by the lively Rafael Leao and Felix going close again for the away side.

Croatia improved in the second half and thought they had equalized around the hour mark, only for Guardiol’s header to be chalked off for offside.

But the Manchester City defender got his goal in the 65th minute when he tucked home Kristijan Jakic’s teasing cross.

At one end Livakovic brilliantly saved Mendes’ close range shot and then at the other Jose Sa made a remarkable stop to keep out Ante Budimir – who was later also denied by the post.

Neither side could be separated in an entertaining contest as both teams progressed to the last eight of the Nations League.

GOAL rating Portugal’s players from the Poljud Stadium…