Cristiano Ronaldo discusses the ups and downs of Portugal’s penalty journey at Euro 2024, highlighting both the challenges and triumphs.

Unbelievable, they did well – Tedesco baffled how Lukaku and Doku failed to score.

In a thrilling last 16 encounter, Cristiano Ronaldo and his Portugal team-mates emerged victorious in a penalty shootout against Slovenia to secure their place in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals. The match ended 0-0 after 90 minutes, with both teams pushing each other to the limit.

The turning point of the game came in the first half of extra-time when Portugal were awarded a penalty. However, Ronaldo’s effort was brilliantly saved by Jan Oblak, leaving the 39-year-old in tears at halftime. But Ronaldo gathered himself and went on to score the opening spot kick in the shootout, leading his team to a 3-0 victory.

Reflecting on his emotions, Ronaldo said, “Even the strongest people have their bad days. I was at rock bottom when the team needed me the most. Sadness at the start is joy at the end. That’s what football is. Moments, inexplicable moments. I feel sad and happy at the same time. But the important thing is to enjoy it. The team did an extraordinary job. We fought right to the end and I think we deserved it because we had more authority.”

The hero of the shootout for Portugal was goalkeeper Diogo Costa, who made three consecutive saves to secure the win. Costa also expressed his support for Ronaldo, stating, “We all know that Cristiano is the hardest worker. I understand how frustrated he is because he devotes all his time to this. It’s a pleasure and an honour to be on the same team as him. We’re a family, I really think this. I focus on making the best of these chances and I wanted to help the team. This is the most important thing. This is probably the best game of my life.”

Portugal struggled to break down Slovenia’s resilient defence throughout the match and were vulnerable to counter-attacks. Costa came to their rescue with a crucial save on Benjamin Sesko in extra-time when the RB Leipzig striker was one-on-one with him.

Manager Roberto Martinez praised Ronaldo’s determination and leadership, saying, “When you see a player, the only player to play in six Euros, with the desire and that belief like a young man – those emotions are incredible for someone who has won everything and experienced everything. He doesn’t need to care that much and that is why I thank him for the way he is. For caring for the group. For being someone who after missing a penalty was the first penalty taker. I knew for certain he had to be the first penalty taker and show us the way to the victory. We are all very, very proud of our captain. The dressing room was delighted and I think he gave us a lesson in having real high standards and never giving up. Life and football give you difficult moments and he is an example that we are really proud of in Portuguese football.”

Portugal will now face France in the quarter-finals in Hamburg on Friday, June 5.