Portugal advanced to the European Championship quarterfinals after defeating Slovenia in a tense penalty shootout. The match, full of drama, saw Cristiano Ronaldo in tears after missing a crucial penalty in extra time, but he ultimately redeemed himself in the shootout.
The game remained scoreless through regular and extra time. In the 114th minute, Ronaldo had a chance to score from the penalty spot, but his shot was saved by Slovenia’s goalkeeper, Jan Oblak. Ronaldo was consoled by his teammates as the game continued to penalties.
In the shootout, Ronaldo successfully scored Portugal’s first penalty. His teammate, Diogo Costa, made three consecutive saves against Slovenia’s Josip Ilicic, Jure Balkovec, and Benjamin Verbič. Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva also scored, leading Portugal to a 3-0 victory in the shootout.
Reflecting on the match, Ronaldo said, “I was sad and now I’m overjoyed. This is what football gives you. You cannot explain it.” Portugal will face France in the quarterfinals on Saturday in Hamburg, a rematch of the 2016 final.
Diogo Costa’s performance was exceptional. He made a crucial save before Ronaldo took the first penalty of the shootout, which set the tone for Portugal’s victory. Costa called it “the best game of my life” and emphasized his intense focus during the penalties.
Ronaldo, initially devastated after his missed penalty, regained his composure and played a pivotal role in the shootout. His teammates and fans rallied behind him, with the crowd shouting “Siuuuu,” his famous goal celebration.
Despite the intense night for Ronaldo, Slovenia’s Benjamin Šeško also had chances to win the game. However, Costa’s impressive goalkeeping denied Šeško, ensuring Portugal’s place in the quarterfinals.
