Bruno Fernandes started for Portugal as they beat Germany 2-1 to book their place in the UEFA Nations League final.
Germany took the lead after the break at the Allianz Arena in Munich, as Bayern Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz headed past Diogo Costa.
This led to several changes from Roberto Martinez in the Portugal dugout, with Francisco Conceicao coming on as one of three substitutions before drawing the visitors level with a stunning long-range curling effort.
Portugal took the lead five minutes later when former Manchester United goalscorer Cristiano Ronaldo converted a cross from Nuno Mendes.
With Germany throwing away their lead and Portugal taking advantage, Bruno Fernandes now has a Nations League final to look forward to.
Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Manchester United fan sends message to Bruno Fernandes
Although Fernandes didn’t contribute a goal or assist against Germany, he was still one of Portugal’s most dangerous players.
Fernandes was also one of the star attractions for the 10,000 Portugal fans in attendance, with many of them making the trip to Munich.
The United captain played a key role in the winning goal as he delivered the ball into Mendes’ path, inviting the Paris Saint-Germain star to square it to Ronaldo.
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Fernandes turned down a lucrative offer from Al-Hilal this week and looks set to remain at Old Trafford for another season.
That would be welcome news for United fans after watching Fernandes win Player of the Year for a fourth season at the club.
One United fan at the Germany vs Portugal match felt the need to ‘thank’ Fernandes for ‘staying’ put rather than leave for the money that was being offered in Saudi Arabia.
The banner read: “Bruno thank you for staying.”
Fernandes stats in Nations League win over Germany
Despite enduring a hectic season full of disappointment at United, Fernandes played the entire game against Germany.
Fernandes operated all over the pitch as he impacted the game in Portugal’s favour to set them up for an eagerly awaited final.
With a 76% pass success rate, Fernandes made three key passes and won seven of his eight ground duels.
The United star was fouled three times and made one clearance to help his defence.
Portugal will play the winner of Spain vs France in the final at the Allianz Arena on Sunday night at 8pm.