Slovenia battled valiantly to keep Portugal at bay, with Jan Oblak making a stunning save in extra time to keep out Ronaldo’s penalty after Diogo Jota was fouled.
New Delhi: Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa saved three Slovenia penalties to secure a 3-0 shoot-out victory for his side after Cristiano Ronaldo got a chance to redeem himself in a problematic Euro 2024 round of 16 clash on Monday.
Portugal legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo couldn’t contain his emotions as he broke down in tears after he missed a penalty in the first period of extra-time in a goalless tie in Frankfurt. But he recovered to convert in the shoot-out as Portugal secured a quarter-final berth against France, which is going to be a blockbuster clash of the tournament.
Slovenia displayed their resilience throughout and kept Portugal at the brink of elimination, with Jan Oblak making a stunning save to keep out Ronaldo’s penalty after Diogo Jota was fouled.
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez reverted to a more familiar 4-3-3 system after his side was embarrassed by debutant Georgia in its last group game when he deployed three at the back.
The 2016 European champions dominated with the ball and created its first chance after 12 minutes of the game when Silva’s accurat cross just evaded Ronaldo and Fernandes could not turn haome at the far post.
Slovenia, playing in its first-ever knock-out match at a major competition, maintained its defensive shape well and limited Portugal’s opportunities.
Former Real Madrid striker Ronaldo directed a soft header at his old nemesis, Atletico Madrid keeper Oblak, under vital pressure from Vanja Drkusic.
