Cristiano Ronaldo’s emotional rollercoaster ended in triumph as Portugal defeated Slovenia in a dramatic penalty shoot-out in the Euro 2024 last-16 match.
After missing a penalty in extra-time, Ronaldo was consoled by teammate Joao Palhinha and regained his composure, scoring the opening kick in the shoot-out.
Portugal’s goalkeeper, Diogo Costa, made three crucial saves, securing Ronaldo’s redemption and a quarter-final showdown with France.
Ronaldo’s emotional outburst, which saw him in tears after his penalty miss, was met with support from the Portugal fans, who chanted “Viva Ronaldo” as he wiped away his tears.
The star player acknowledged the ups and downs of football, saying, “First, it was sadness, then joy… that’s what football gives you. I didn’t make a single mistake this year, and when I needed something the most, Oblak saved it.”
Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martinez, praised Ronaldo’s resilience, stating, “He missed a penalty, but then he was decisive in the shoot-out… he showed that even in difficult moments, we can’t give up.”
Martinez hailed the victory as a testament to the team’s unity and Ronaldo’s leadership, saying, “It was a victory for unity, from the dressing room. Cristiano is our captain, and he showed that in life and in football, there are difficult moments, and we can’t give up. We have to keep going, and it was a demonstration of what to do when things aren’t going well.”
The win marked a dramatic turnaround for Ronaldo, who went from tears to cheers in a matter of minutes.
His redemption was complete, and he had cemented his place in the quarter-finals against France.
