Hamburg, Germany – In a match filled with heart-stopping moments and emotional swings, Portugal edged past Slovenia in a dramatic penalty shootout to secure their place in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals. The Round of 16 clash on Monday remained goalless after regular and extra time, but Portugal emerged victorious with a 3-0 win in penalties.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, especially for Portugal’s star forward Cristiano Ronaldo. The 38-year-old experienced personal drama when his penalty kick in the 114th minute of extra time was saved by Slovenia’s goalkeeper Jan Oblak, leaving Ronaldo in tears and seeking consolation from his teammates.
As the match progressed to penalties, Ronaldo redeemed himself by confidently scoring Portugal’s first spot-kick. His composure set the tone for the shootout, with teammates Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva also successfully converting their penalties.
Portugal’s goalkeeper Diogo Costa was the hero of the night, delivering a phenomenal performance by saving all three of Slovenia’s penalty attempts from Josip Iličić, Jure Balkovec, and Benjamin Verbič. His stellar display between the posts ensured Portugal’s advancement with two kicks to spare.
"This is probably the best game of my life," Costa said after the match. "I focused as hard as I could. I breathed in several times and went with my gut."
Reflecting on his missed penalty during extra time, Ronaldo expressed relief and joy at the outcome. "I was sad and now I’m overjoyed. This is what football gives you," he said. "You cannot explain it."
Portugal’s victory sets up a much-anticipated rematch against France in the quarterfinals on Friday. The two teams last faced each other in the Euro 2016 final, where Portugal clinched the title in Paris despite Ronaldo leaving the field early due to injury.
The emotional intensity of the match was palpable as fans witnessed both the anguish and elation of their football icons. Ronaldo’s journey from despair to redemption encapsulated the unpredictable nature of the sport.
"We all know that Cris is the hardest worker. I understand how frustrated he is," Costa added. "For me, it’s an honor to play on the same team."
The upcoming quarterfinal against France promises to be a thrilling encounter as Portugal aims to continue their pursuit of European glory.
Reference(s):
Epic penalties drama in Portugal's Euro 2024 last 16 win over Slovenia
cgtn.com
