Qatar World Cup: Cristiano Ronaldo's Replacement Goncalo Ramos Scores Hat-Trick In 6-1 Win [Watch]

Cristiano Ronaldo's replacement Goncalo Ramos struck a hat-trick in Portugal's 6-1 victory over Switzerland in FIFA World Cup on Tuesday.

It was this edition's first hat-trick and the big win at Lusail Stadium took Portugal to the quarter-final.

Portugal head coach Fernando Santos started Ramos ahead of Ronaldo after the boss expressed displeasure at the veteran forward's gestures when he was substituted in the last group game against South Korea. It was also the first time in 31 matches since 2008 that Ronaldo had not started for his country in a major tournament.

Ramos, who barely played in the group stage, set the stage on fire on his maiden World Cup start. Taking full advantage of the golden opportunity, the Benfica forward netted three goals and assisted one.

Just 17 minutes into the first half, Ramos first struck when he put one behind Swiss keeper Jan Sommer at the near post before veteran defender Pepe doubled Portugal's lead by heading Bruno Fernandes' corner in the 33rd minute.

In the second half, Ramos once again made his presence felt almost immediately when he scored through a Diogo Dalot cross. The 21-year-old striker then set up Raphael Guerriero's goal before completing the treble with a 67th-minute strike.

Ramos was included in Portugal's World Cup squad because of the unavailability of Liverpool FC star Diogo Jota, who was recovering from a calf injury. While Ramos is yet to establish himself on the international level, the Portuguese forward is already considered a bright prospect in Benfica's youth system.

Ramos has netted nine goals in 11 league matches for the Lisbon-based club this season and overall, the young striker has scored 14 goals and six assists in 21 games in all competitions.

Ramos previously caught everyone's eyes in 2019 when he was the top scorer at the Under-19 European Championship.

He joined Benfica in 2013 when he was just 12 years old. Ramos has always been recognized for his finishing ability, and with so many playmakers in Portugal's World Cup squad, his precision shooting is an asset for head coach Santos.

Portugal will next face off against Morocco in the quarter-final. The African side defeated former champions Spain on penalties in their Round of 16 meeting.