No matter who you think is the GOAT of soccer, Cristiano Ronaldo is always a name that comes up in the discussion. Whether you believe it is Messi from Argentina or Maradona from the same country, Ronaldo is a name that always gets thrown around when talking about one of the greatest footballers to ever grace the field.
This Portuguese superstar rose to fame at a young age and has never had a dip in form throughout the last two decades of his playing career. And, he doesn’t plan on stopping any time soon– at least not before he finishes out the Euros in style with his Portugal national team.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Last Euros for Portugal Team
Portugal won in their first game of the Euros 2024 tournament in Germany against a tough Slovenian side, ensuring that Cristiano Ronaldo wouldn’t play his last game for his home country just yet. Costa, a player who is currently in fine form, scored in penalties for Portugal as the keeper also had a few heroic saves that cost Slovenia their first win.
Even with the three points, a lot of the fans, pundits, players, and commentators focused on the fact that Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the greatest goal scorers of all time, missed his spot kick right before the PK shot out that would have seen his team win. Are the critics being too harsh, or are they justified?
Ronaldo doesn’t want anyone to worry about his fitness, tactical ability, or ability to handle pressure during tough scenarios.
“This will be my last Euro, of course. But I’m not moved by this, I’m moved by enthusiasm. I was sorry for the fans. I’ll always give my best for this shirt, whether I miss it or not. And I’ll do this my whole life. You have to take responsibility.’
And that he did. We love that Ronaldo, a veteran of the game, stepped up to take the pressure-laden penalty when the team was in dire need. Although he missed, it takes a lot of courage and confidence to step up in a moment like that.
After the penalty miss, Ronaldo was visibly upset and crying on the field, fearing that he had cost his side the three points to progress. But, he made his penalty kick in the shootout at the end of the game and helped spur his team to victory, along with the three saves from his Portuguese keeper.
Plus, Ronaldo learned a lot from the opening game.
“Slovenia spent almost the entire time defending, the team deserves congratulations, especially our goalkeeper who made three good saves. Even the strongest people have their days. I was down and I was sad because the team needed me.’
Portugal in the Euros
Now, Portugal is at the top of the table in the group stage after beating Slovenia on penalties, Georgia 2-0, Portugal 3-0, and Czechia 2-1.
The closest game so far, the last game against Czechia, saw Hranac score an own goal for Czechia and Conceicao score in extra time to give Portugal the much-needed win against the opposing side.
They have progressed into the later stages of the tournament where they will face off against France, a tough draw, in the UEFA Euro quarterfinal match-up on Saturday, July 6th.
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.
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