Portugal Defeats Slovenia in Penalty Shootout, Advances to Euro 2024 Quarterfinals

Portugal secured a spot in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals by defeating Slovenia in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw. The match saw Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo at the center of the action, displaying a range of emotions throughout the game.

The 0-0 draw against the 57th-ranked team in the world led to a tense penalty shootout, where Portugal triumphed 3-0. Ronaldo, who missed a penalty during extra time, was visibly emotional. He apologized to fans, who responded with support.

Ronaldo's mother, present in the stadium, was also seen crying after her son's missed penalty. “Sometimes it's hard and difficult to score penalties,” Ronaldo told Portuguese broadcaster RTP. “I've scored more than 200 penalties in my career. Sometimes it's a mess.”

Despite the miss, Ronaldo's successful penalty in the shootout contributed to Portugal's victory. “We showed the enthusiasm that we still have to play, to have fun, to give joy to the fans and that's it, this is our life,” he said after the match.

At 39 years old, Ronaldo aimed to become the oldest player to score at a Euros finals tournament. His chance came in the 105th minute, but Slovenia goalkeeper Jan Oblak, a familiar opponent from La Liga, saved his shot. This led to a dramatic break before the second period of extra time, where Ronaldo's teammates offered support.

The shootout began with Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa saving Slovenia's first kick. Ronaldo then converted his penalty, followed by successful attempts from Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva, sealing the shootout victory.

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez praised Ronaldo's resilience. “I was certain that he had to be the first penalty taker and show us the way to victory,” he said. Costa's performance was crucial, saving all three of Slovenia's penalties.

Post-match, Ronaldo expressed his relief. “I was sad and now I'm overjoyed. This is what football gives you. You cannot explain it.” Portugal will next face France in Hamburg, revisiting the 2016 final where Portugal emerged victorious.

Ronaldo's match against Oblak was marked by multiple attempts and missed opportunities, including a clear shot in the 89th minute and three free kicks. Oblak effectively thwarted these efforts, maintaining the scoreline.

Slovenia's Benjamin Šeško had opportunities to score but was denied by Costa. The match mirrored previous encounters, such as the Euro 2012 semifinals and the 2016 Champions League final, where Ronaldo and Oblak faced off in penalty shootouts.

Portugal aims to reclaim the European title it won in 2016. Slovenia, despite the loss, showed commendable resilience, drawing all four of its games at Euro 2024. “His emotions show respect for Slovenia,” said Slovenia coach Matjaž Kek of Ronaldo's display, “and that is what I am content with.”