Former Spurs flop Helder Postiga scored the only goal of an entertaining game to lift Portugal above Russia in the standings although the Russians have two games in hand.
Portugal were worthy of their win in a close game in Lisbon with the Russians relentless on the counter attack.
Helder Postiga now has 26 goals for the national side in 61 games and is 7th in the all time goalscorers list with Rui Costa, Nuno Gomes and Luis Figo all in his sight.
The hosts once again looked to Ronaldo to drive the selecao forward and the Real Madrid man did not disappoint but failed to find the goal he was hungry for the settle the Portuguese nerves.
Paulo Bento's side are now two points clear at the top but will need Russia to slip up in their remaining games if they are to qualify automatically.
1-0 | ||
Hélder Postiga 9' |