Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed UEFA Euro 2024 will “without a doubt” be his last European Championships after Portugal scraped past Slovenia to reach the quarter-finals.
In a goalless match on Monday, Cristiano Ronaldo faced a challenging night, missing several opportunities and having a crucial extra-time penalty saved by Slovenian goalkeeper Oblak. The five time Ballon d’Or winner, visibly emotional during the extra-time interval, later described the moment as hitting “rock bottom.”
However, Cristiano Ronaldo composed himself to successfully take Portugal’s first penalty in the shootout. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa’s heroics, saving all three of Slovenia’s penalties, secured Portugal’s victory and a Last eighth meeting with France.
Participating in his 11th major international tournament (World Cup/Euros), this is the first where Ronaldo failed to score during the group stages. He has yet to score in the tournament despite taking 20 shots, which amount to a total expected goal (xG) of 2.75, the 2nd highest among players. Germany’s Kai Havertz, who scored from two penalties, has the highest xG at 3.75.
Having turned 39 in February, Cristiano Ronaldo has faced speculation about his chances for more international success. Confirming his retirement from the European Championships, he told RTP, “This is my last Euros.”
Cristiano Ronaldo dismissed the suggestion his extra-time tears were the result of him approaching the end of his career, saying: “I’m not emotional about that.
“I’m moved by everything that football entails, by the enthusiasm I have for the game, the enthusiasm I see in the fans, having my family here, people’s passion.
“It’s not about leaving the world of football. What else is there for me to do or win?”
Leave a comment