Redemption For Tearful Ronaldo At 'Last Euros'

 As Jan Oblak's hand tipped Cristiano Ronaldo's extra-time penalty on to the post, the Portuguese legend's dreams shattered in a moment.

He had "hit rock bottom".

The 39-year-old, who afterwards told Portuguese media this was his last Euros, bowed his head and burst into tears while team-mates raced to console their captain, with Slovenia threatening one of the Euros' biggest ever shocks.

A legendary European Championship career seemed set to end in the cruellest of ways.

Ronaldo's penalty was saved in extra time with the last-16 tie goalless, but just 15 minutes later he stepped up to the same spot to fire in the first of his country's shootout kicks.

Goalkeeper Diogo Costa then made Euros history with three penalty shootout saves as Portugal survived a humiliating exit, overcoming Slovenia to set-up a quarter-final tie with France.

More tears fell from Ronaldo - this time of pure joy and relief.

"Even the strongest people have their [bad] days. I was at rock bottom when the team needed me the most," said Ronaldo afterwards, before tearing up again.

"Sadness at the start is joy at the end. That's what football is. Moments, inexplicable moments. I feel sad and happy at the same time.

"But the important thing is to enjoy it. The team did an extraordinary job. We fought right to the end and I think we deserved it because we had more authority."

Having said this will be his last Euros, Ronaldo's desire to score a goal and achieve success with Portugal is even greater.

The Portugal skipper has already made history in Germany, by appearing at a record sixth European Championship.

He has also scored the most European Championship goals (14) and made the most appearances (28) at the Euros.

"There's a side of him where he becomes more of a team player for Portugal than any other club team he's played for," said former Scotland striker Nevin.

"The country means a lot to him. I don't think he won't care if he doesn't score, but the priority is on the results."

Ronaldo became the first player to score a penalty in three penalty shootouts at the Euros.

However, he has received criticism for his goal drought and that is unlikely to diminish after events in Frankfurt.

But Portugal boss Roberto Martinez says he is a "constant example" for all players in his homeland.

"When you see a player, the only player to play in six Euros, with the desire and that belief [like a] young man - those emotions are incredible for someone who has won everything and experienced everything," said Martinez.

"He doesn't need to care that much and that is why I thank him for the way he is. For caring for the group. For being someone who after missing a penalty was the first penalty taker [in the shootout].

"I knew for certain he had to be the first penalty taker and show us the way to the victory. We are all very, very proud of our captain.

"The dressing room was delighted and I think he gave us a lesson in having real high standards and never giving up. Life and football give you difficult moments and he is an example that we are really proud of in Portuguese football."

 

Story From BBC Sports