Smalling celebrates after his goal which gave England the win (Photo: AFP)
Smalling celebrating his goal which gave England the win (Photo: AFP)

With their opening fixture just eight days away, England completes their preparations for the Euro 2016 cup as the Three Lions went head to head against Portugal on Wednesday and emerged victorious with an 86th minute header from Chris Smalling.

Christiano Ronaldo’s absence may have crushed hopes but that didn’t seem to slow down Portugal as they kept right on in the game.

The much controversial formation used by manager Roy Hodgson seems to have paid off after all in Portugal’s first game at the Wembley Stadium since 1998.

England’s first try on hitting the net came in the 23rd minute from Rooney’s headed cross into the arms of Rui Patricio. Six minutes later, Portugal’s defender, Ricardo Carvalho tried a header from a free-kick.

Portugal’s Bruno Alves gave England an advantage after he was sent off in the 35th minute for a header challenge against Harry Kane that looked like he wanted to decapitate him.

Bruno Alves' challenge on Smalling earned him a red card (Photo: Getty)
Bruno Alves’ challenge on Kane earned him a red card (Photo: Getty)

Manchester United’s coach, Jose Mourinho was present at the game and had his face lit up after Smalling’s goal, making all wins by England come from Man U players since his appointment as manager. Marcus Rashford and Wayne Rooney were on form during England’s previous 2-1 win over Australia.

Jose Mourinho and his daughter at the game. (Photo: BPI/Kieran McManus)
Jose Mourinho with his daughter at the game. (Photo: BPI/Kieran McManus)