Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal secured a 3-0 shootout victory over Slovenia after a goalless draw in their EURO 2024 Round-of-16 match at Deutsche Bank Park on Monday night (July 1). Goalkeeper Diogo Costa put on a stellar performance in Frankfurt, making spectacular saves to deny Slovenia a knockout victory in the EUROs.
Cristiano Ronaldo & Co. Struggle Against Slovenia
Portugal, one of the strongest teams in EURO 2024, were expected to dominate Slovenia in the Round of 16. While they ultimately emerged victorious, the match was much closer than anticipated.
Roberto Martinez fielded a strong lineup, with Ronaldo, Rafael Leao, Bruno Fernandes, and Bernardo Silva leading the attack. The midfield, consisting of Vitinha and Joao Palhinha, and the full-backs, Joao Cancelo and Nuno Mendes, provided ample support to the attacking unit. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, Portugal failed to convert their opportunities.
Ronaldo, the top scorer in European Championship history, had eight shots during the game, with four on target. However, Jan Oblak, Slovenia’s goalkeeper, remained unbeatable. Ronaldo missed a penalty in the 105th minute, while Fernandes and Silva also had unsuccessful attempts. Leao did not register a shot in his 76 minutes on the pitch.
Diogo Costa Shines in EURO 2024 Clash
With the match ending in a stalemate after 120 minutes, the game headed to penalties, showcasing a battle between Costa and Oblak. Costa saved two crucial penalties, while Ronaldo and Fernandes successfully converted their spot-kicks to secure Portugal’s victory.
Costa’s heroics against Slovenia made history, as he became the first goalkeeper in European Championship history to save three penalties in a single game. He also achieved the milestone of keeping a clean sheet throughout the match and penalty shootout, setting a new record in EURO history.
