Portugal secures a Euro 2024 quarter-final spot against France with a penalty shootout victory over Slovenia; Ronaldo misses in extra-time but scores in shootout; Diogo Costa saves three penalties.
Portugal secured a place in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals with a dramatic 3-0 penalty shootout victory over Slovenia after a goalless draw, setting up a clash against France. Cristiano Ronaldo, who missed a penalty in extra-time, was redeemed by converting in the shootout as goalkeeper Diogo Costa made three crucial saves.
A tearful Ronaldo was consoled by his teammates after Jan Oblak saved his spot-kick in the 105th minute. However, his redemption came swiftly when he scored Portugal’s first penalty in the shootout. Costa’s heroics, saving attempts from Josip Ilicic, Jure Balkovec, and Benjamin Verbic, paved the way for Portugal’s triumph. Bernardo Silva sealed the win after Bruno Fernandes had also converted his penalty.
Ronaldo’s emotional journey throughout the match saw multiple missed opportunities, including four unsuccessful free-kicks and a saved attempt from Diogo Jota’s pass in the 89th minute. Despite these frustrations, his penalty shootout success ensured Portugal’s progression.
Portugal dominated possession but struggled to break down Slovenia’s resilient defense. Oblak was outstanding, making several crucial saves, including a one-on-one with Benjamin Sesko. Costa’s historic performance, being the first goalkeeper to save three penalties in a European Championship shootout, was instrumental in Portugal’s advancement.
Portugal will now face France in the quarter-finals in Hamburg, with Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe set for a high-profile showdown.
Credit: Sky Sports
