Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martinez, praised Captain Cristiano Ronaldo for setting an exemplary standard following their Euro 2024 victory against Slovenia on Monday.
Ronaldo was visibly emotional after his penalty was saved by goalkeeper Jan Oblak during the first half of extra time. However, the Al Nassr forward redeemed himself by taking the first penalty in the shootout, successfully scoring into the opposite corner.
The penalty shootout concluded with Portugal winning 3-0, securing their spot in the last 8.
Martinez expressed his gratitude for Ronaldo’s leadership, stating, “He [Ronaldo] doesn’t need to care that much and that’s why I thank him for being the way he is, for caring for the group… I was certain he had to be the first penalty taker and show us the way to victory.”
Reflecting on Ronaldo’s influence, Martinez added, “I think we all felt very proud of our captain. The dressing room was delighted with what he is doing. I think he gave us all a lesson that you need to live every day as if it is the last one.”
