Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo was undoubtedly the star man as his hat-trick helped Portugal to a 3-3 draw with former world champions Spain in their Group C at the ongoing 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

He gave the European champions the lead from the penalty spot on four minutes after he was fouled by club teammate Nacho Fernandes before Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa pulled the Spanish team level with a 24th minute solo goal.

Ronaldo added his brace just before halftime as he capitalised on a rare error from Spain goalkeeper David De Gea only for Diego Costa to score again to level matters just after the interval.

Nacho edged Spain ahead for the first time with a very good goal to put his side 3-2 up but Ronaldo had the last laugh with a late free kick to rescue a 3-3 draw and a point for his team.

It was his 6th hat-trick for Portugal and a 51st career hat-trick in total as he takes his World Cup tally to 6 goals thus making his international goal haul to 84.

Spain and Portugal will still have to play second fiddle to Iran for now in Group B after the Asians saw off Morocco in the earlier game in the group.