Cristiano Ronaldo’s illustrious career with Portugal at the European Championship reached a poignant end as the team faced a heartbreaking exit in the quarterfinals against France. In a dramatic penalty shootout early on Saturday, France emerged victorious with a 5-3 win, ending Ronaldo’s bid for a final European Championship title.
The 39-year-old Ronaldo, who had announced that this would be his sixth and last appearance at the European Championship, faced the end of an era in what has been a storied international career. Despite scoring Portugal’s first penalty in the shootout, the team was unable to advance, with Joao Felix missing a crucial spot-kick that hit the upright.
Ahead of the tournament, Ronaldo expressed his sentiments to the Portuguese public broadcaster RTP, stating, “It is, without doubt, my last European Championship. But I’m not emotional about that. I’m moved by all that football means — by the enthusiasm I have for the game, the enthusiasm for seeing my supporters, my family, the affection people have for me.” His words came after Portugal’s victory over Slovenia in the quarterfinals, where they triumphed 3-0 in penalties.
The match against France was a tense affair, culminating in a penalty shootout that saw all of France’s spot-kick takers successfully convert their attempts. The decisive moment came when Felix’s shot failed to find the back of the net, sealing Portugal’s fate.
Ronaldo’s emotions were palpable as he stood alone after the shootout, reflecting on the end of his European Championship journey. His longtime teammate Pepe, overwhelmed with emotion, sobbed into Ronaldo’s jersey. Ronaldo took a moment to console the defender before they both made their way down the tunnel.
For France, the result was a significant relief. They had substituted their own talisman, Kylian Mbappe, before the shootout after he appeared to suffer a knock on his face. Mbappe, already competing in the tournament with a face mask due to a previous injury, had to watch from the sidelines as his team secured the win.
This victory marked a turning point for France, who had previously experienced penalty shootout heartbreak in their last two major tournaments — the 2021 Euros and the 2022 World Cup final. Now, with this win, France moves on to face Spain in the semifinals, following Spain’s extra-time victory over Germany in Stuttgart.
As Ronaldo’s European Championship chapter closes, the football world reflects on his remarkable contributions and the passion he brought to every match. His legacy will undoubtedly endure, inspiring future generations of players and fans alike.
