Cristiano Ronaldo was left in tears during Portugal’s Euro 2024 match against Slovenia before scoring a penalty in the shootout win, describing them as “baffling moments”.
Ronaldo played the villain role in a scoreless game as he missed a series of chances and had a penalty saved by Slovenian goalkeeper Jan Oblak in overtime. The 39-year-old was in tears in extra time and was consoled by his teammates, but he took the penalty in the shootout, with Diogo Costa saving all three of Slovenia’s goals Penalty kick, Portugal won 3-0.
“Even the strongest people have their [bad] A few days later,” Ronaldo told reporters after the game. “I was at my lowest when the team needed me the most. At first I was sad, but now I’m happy. That’s football. Those moments, moments that are hard to explain.
Asked about his emotional outpouring during the game, Ronaldo said: “I feel emotional when I think about my family because they are unique moments that I can’t express in words. They are people I love. , the fans who are always with us and especially with me, I’m very happy about that.
“I haven’t missed a penalty all year. I missed this moment, but the most important thing is that the team won. I lost twice in penalty shootouts this season and won the third time… We deserved it Get promoted.
“Whether I fail or not, I will do my best for this jersey, but when the team has to take responsibility, you have to take responsibility. I’m never afraid to face things. Sometimes I do things right, sometimes I do wrong, But you’ll never hear quitting from me.
Portugal’s victory set them up for a quarter-final meeting with France in Hamburg on Friday, beating Belgium 1-0.
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez praised Ronaldo’s resilience after Oblak’s superb penalty save in extra time. “
“I’m sure he has to be the first penalty taker and show us the way to victory.”
