Spain’s Fernando Hierro supports David de Gea after error against Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo made it clear that he means business at this World Cup after his stunning hat-trick secured a 3-3 draw here with Spain in a tournament classic and saw him reach another career landmark.

That goal meant Ronaldo is now the only player in global history to score goals in eight consecutive major tournaments as he wrote another chapter in his incredible story.

Reports of the deal came hours before Ronaldo scored three goals to give Portugal a 3-3 draw with Spain in their opening match of the World Cup in Russian Federation.

“De Gea is my boy”, he told RT.

Costa clashed with Portugal’s Pepe and appeared to hit Pepe’s face with his forearm, but the goal stood following review.

“It’s always great to have somebody wonderful playing like that”, Portugal coach Fernando Santos said.

It wouldn’t be the first time Ronaldo went down easily, but it would be harsh to insinuate that this was complete simulation.

Ronaldo was never going to let anyone else take the spot-kick and immediately took possession of the ball inside the Olympic Stadium. Referee Gianluca Rocchi allowed the play to continue.

After Isco complained, Rocchi pointed to his watch, which is where he gets goal-line technology confirmations.

Starting the second-half stronger, Spain were level only minutes in; Costa again capitalising on a well-worked move. Midfielders David Silva and Andres Iniesta began showing off some of the ball cycling and verve that had made this the most decorated global side in history.

Ronaldo made that miss pay just before the break with his second of the day – his low-and-hard shot receiving an assist from De Gea, who shockingly bundled what should have been an easy save into his own net.

This tournament is also expected to be Pique’s last with Spain, having expressed plans to retire from global football.

Spain’s midfielder Thiago Alcantara (L) and Portugal’s defender Jose Fonte compete for the ball during the Russian Federation 2018 World Cup Group B football match between Portugal and Spain at the Fisht Stadium in Sochi on June 15, 2018.

However, the Manchester United keeper couldn’t get enough of his frame behind the ball and Portugal regained the lead in the most ridiculous of circumstances. It was the star striker who saved the team from defeat with his late equalizer.

In by far the best game of the tournament so far, Spain forward Diego Costa notched a double before Nacho put them 3-2 ahead with a brilliant third only for Ronaldo to snatch a point.