The Portuguese forward and captain, Cristiano Ronaldo Hints of Retirement after a close and nervous win over Slovenia in the round of 16. Slovenia really tested the Portuguese national team up until the last minute. Portugal came out on top on penalties (3-0), in which Diogo Costa saved all three of the kicks.
Ronaldo’s Performance in the Match
The 39-year-old Ronaldo had a tough outing both physically and emotionally. After 120 minutes of trying to find the back of the net, he was seen crying after missing the match-winning penalty in the extra time, which would have seen Portugal go through to the Quarters of Euros. He had to be consoled by his teammates, depicting the strenuous effect the match had on him. He then stepped up to take the first penalty in the penalty shootout and converted it.
Portugal will now face France in the quarter finals of Euros. This match will be like a final before the final. Eyes will be on Ronaldo as he will be looking to make an impact and shown how he is still able to play at the top level after facing lots of criticism after the Slovenia match.
Cristiano Ronaldo Hints of Retirement
Speaking after the game, Ronaldo explained what the tears during the match were for while also saying that this would be his final European Championship.
“It is, without doubt, my last European Championship,” Ronaldo told Portuguese outlet.
“But I’m not emotional about that. I’m moved by all that football means: the enthusiasm I have for seeing my supporters and my family, the affection people have for me.”
He further added, “It’s not about leaving football because I do. What else would I need to do or win? It won’t be about getting one more point or one less point. Making people happy is what motivates me the most.”
Netizens took this statement as a sign of age finally having its burden on the 39-year-old Ronaldo. He will still be playing for his club, Al Nassr, and will be looking to fare better than last season.
Ronaldo’s Legacy at Euros
Euro 2024 is Ronaldo’s sixth Euro tournament, a record number for any player in history(2004, 2008,2012,2016,2020, 2024). Cristaino Ronaldo is surely a biggest star of Football in Euro Cup now without any doubt.
Having won it in 2016, he will be looking to double up the tally in this Euros. He currently holds the record for the most number of Euro Cup goals (14), followed by Platini’s 9. He also has the most appearances in the tournament history, missing out on only one match in the Euro 2024. He also has the most number of assists (8) alongside Czechia’s Poborsky.
He has yet to score a goal this season after four matches. He has an assist to his name in the tournament, which was for Bruno Fernandez in the group stage match against Turkey. He has been hungry for goals in all of the matches, which will only increase his chances of getting one.
Portugal’s Chances to Win Euro 2024
After a hard-fought victory in the round of 16 against Slovenia, Portugal will face a formidable opponent in France. Both teams are favorites to win the Euros but only one team’s dreams will continue after the Quarter Final.
If Portugal manage to win, they will face either Spain or Germany in the semi finals. These fixtures will be very hard for the Portuguese and they will have to be at their best against these opponents. This will be Ronaldo’s last Euros, so both the players and the fans will pray that Portugal will win this Euro.
Conclusion
As Portugal prepares for their next challenge in the tournament, the focus will inevitably be on Euro Cup 2016 winning team captain, Ronaldo. His leadership and experience will be crucial as the team aims for glory. Whether this tournament will be Ronaldo’s swan song remains to be seen, but his legacy is already cemented.
