Portugal secured their place in the quarterfinals of Euro 2024 with a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Slovenia on Monday, a match marked by an emotional rollercoaster for Cristiano Ronaldo. The veteran striker, reduced to tears after missing a penalty in extra time, was ultimately a key figure in his team’s success.
At the Frankfurt Arena, Ronaldo’s frustration was palpable as he saw his spot-kick expertly saved by Slovenia’s Jan Oblak. His missed penalty, along with a series of missed opportunities during regular play, left the 39-year-old visibly upset, with his teammates rallying around him as they prepared for the second half of extra time.
When the game reached the shootout, Ronaldo redeemed himself by converting Portugal’s first penalty. Meanwhile, Portugal’s goalkeeper, Diogo Costa, achieved a historic feat by saving all three of Slovenia’s penalties, becoming the first keeper in European Championship history to do so.
Portugal’s squad was flawless from the spot, with Bernardo Silva sealing their victory by scoring the decisive fourth penalty. Costa’s crucial save from Slovenia’s young star Benjamin Šeško—who had capitalized on a rare mistake from 41-year-old Pepe—kept the game level and paved the way for the shootout.
Portugal will now face France on July 5 in what promises to be a highly anticipated quarterfinal match.
A Night of Mixed Emotions
Ronaldo’s night was a microcosm of his Euro 2024 campaign. Entering the match with a goal drought, he continued to struggle in front of goal, missing several chances and failing to convert a crucial penalty in extra time. His efforts included a number of near misses and a freekick that was either too high or directly into Oblak’s hands. The most glaring opportunity came late in regular time, when a clear chance was thwarted by Oblak’s quick reflexes.
As the game extended into extra time, Ronaldo’s frustration became more evident, culminating in tears after his penalty was saved. Yet, the shootout saw a turnaround as Ronaldo’s successful penalty kick and Costa’s remarkable saves ensured Portugal’s advancement.
Ronaldo’s performance at Euro 2024 has been under scrutiny, with the star forward failing to find the net in his first four games of the tournament. This Euro marks the first time in his career that he has completed a group stage without scoring, according to Goal.
Despite his recent challenges, Ronaldo has the opportunity to make history in the upcoming match against France. If he scores, he would become the oldest goalscorer in the history of the European Championship.
On another note, Ronaldo’s teammate Pepe also made history on Monday by becoming the oldest player to appear in a knockout stage match at a major tournament, surpassing the previous record held by former England goalkeeper Peter Shilton, as noted by Opta.
As Portugal prepares for the next challenge, Ronaldo’s legacy and the team’s prospects for further success remain at the forefront of the Euro 2024 narrative.