• Adidas
  • Snapdragon
  • Tezos
  • DXC
  • Search

Bruno scores a penalty as Portugal progress

by
Mark Froggatt
Monday 01 July 2024 22:54

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes scored in a dramatic penalty shootout as Portugal narrowly defeated Slovenia at Euro 2024’s last-16 stage.

Our talismanic playmaker returned to the starting line-up as manager Roberto Martinez made eight changes from the matchday-three defeat to Georgia. Diogo Dalot was named on the bench and our Players’ Player of the Year did not feature at the Frankfurt Arena.

With so many creative players on the pitch, Portugal controlled the ball with ease and held over 70 per cent of possession, but ultimately struggled to break through Slovenia’s disciplined low block. They registered 20 shots in total but, crucially, only six of those were on target and the score was goalless after 120 minutes.

Portugal v Slovenia

 Gallery

Don't miss these images from the Frankfurt Arena in Germany.

View Gallery
Bruno was typically industrious and creative throughout the game, although his evening was almost ended after 80 minutes when he was badly fouled by Timi Max Elsnik. Thankfully, our no.8 was able to play on after receiving medical attention. 

Former United player Cristiano Ronaldo led the line for his nation and the 39-year-old grew visibly frustrated by several misses, including a series of ambitious free-kicks from distance. 

CR7’s despair only increased during the first half of extra time when his penalty was brilliantly saved by Jan Oblak, leaving him in floods of tears during the break. It was a difficult sight and United team-mates Dalot and Fernandes were among the players who tried to console the all-time great. 
Slovenia almost won the game at the end of extra time when Benjamin Sesko pounced on an error by Pepe to run clear on goal, but his effort was saved by Diogo Costa and a penalty shootout was then required. 

Amazingly, Ronaldo stepped up to take Portugal’s first penalty and he bravely slotted the ball into the back of the net, showing tremendous courage and character in the process. 

Fernandes converted his country’s second spot-kick, but it was goalkeeper Costa who stole the show by saving all three of Slovenia’s penalties to win the game. 

Portugal can now looking forward to a quarter-final against France on Friday night. 
Who wins and how?poll

Who wins and how?

FROM SOCIAL MEDIA

Take a closer look at the game via BBC Sport's account on X...

 

UNITED UNDER ANY SPOTLIGHT adcard

SHOP NOW

Recommended:

Related Keywords