Cristiano Ronaldo was in tears after missing a penalty against Slovenia during a UEFA Euro 2024 match on Monday, July 1.
The Portuguese star cried when Slovenia’s goalkeeper, Jan Oblak, saved his penalty in extra time.
However, just 15 minutes later, Ronaldo, playing in his record sixth Euro, stepped up again to score Portugal’s first penalty.
Ronaldo said, “Even the strongest people have bad days. I felt low when the team needed me most. Sadness at the start can turn into joy. That’s football—unpredictable moments. I feel sad and happy at the same time.”
He added, “But the important thing is to enjoy it. The team did an amazing job. We fought till the end, and I think we deserved to win because we were more dominant.”
Portugal won the match 3-0 on penalties and advanced to the quarterfinals. Ronaldo, Fernandes, and Bernardo Silva scored, while Diogo Costa saved three penalties.
Goalkeeper Costa praised Ronaldo, saying, “We all know Cristiano works the hardest. I understand his frustration because he gives everything for this. It’s a pleasure and honor to play on his team.”
Portugal will next play France in the quarterfinals on Friday, July 5.