After missing a penalty in extra time, Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal moved from tears to joyous celebrations as his team defeated Slovenia in a thrilling shoot-out in the Euro 2024 last 16 on Monday. In a tight goalless draw in Frankfurt, Ronaldo had a chance to put Portugal ahead late in the first overtime period. Following a foul on Diogo Jota, the 39-year-old went up to attempt the spot kick, but Jan Oblak made a fantastic save to keep it out.
Ronaldo grabbed his head in surprise, clearly shocked to see Oblak block his attempt after scoring his previous 29 penalties.
Cristiano began sobbing aloud as he stood in a group of Portugal teammates a few seconds after the whistle for half-time in extra time blew.
When the game restarted, Ronaldo was able to wipe away his tears and play again after being comforted by teammate Joao Palhinha.
“Viva Cristiano” was chanted by Portugal supporters as their player’s tearful outburst was broadcast on the Frankfurt Arena’s large screen.
Cristiano, a former player for Real Madrid and Manchester United, regained his composure in time for the penalty shootout and exacted a little amount of retribution by scoring the first kick to put Portugal ahead.
In the shootout, Oblak chose to move to the right instead of the left after shooting to the left for his penalty during extra time, and he managed to squeeze it into the corner.
As he moved back to join his teammates on the halfway line, Ronaldo was visibly relieved. He apologized to the Portugal supporters by raising his hands.
Diogo Costa of Portugal saved three penalties to guarantee that Ronaldo’s redemption was complete, and Roberto Martinez’s team was set to play France in an exciting quarterfinal match.
“First it was sadness and then it was joy, that’s what football gives you, inexplicable moments, a bit of everything,” Ronaldo stated.
“This year, I made no mistakes at all, and Oblak came through for me just when I needed it most.
“Slovenia spent the whole game defending and when that happens, it all becomes difficult.”
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez praised Cristiano for not allowing his meltdown to divert his attention during the penalty shootout.
“Ronaldo missed a penalty and then was decisive when he started the penalty shoot-out, he paved the way,” Martinez stated.
It was a triumph of togetherness right there in the changing room. Cristiano, our captain, demonstrated that we must persevere through tough times in both life and football.
“We have to keep going and it was a demonstration of what to do when things aren’t going well.”
Read More: Chelsea plan to use new teenage signing “in and around the senior squad” this season
