Portuguese great Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that he is playing his last Euros after a thrilling match against Slovenia where he missed several chances to score goals, including a penalty.
“It’s undoubtedly the last Euros (for me) of course,” he said after the match. Ronaldo was seen crying after missing the penalty Jan Oblak saved his spot-kick. It was after multiple missed attempts at goal during the game.
“The most important thing about this career I have made is the enthusiasm that I have still to be here.”
The Portuguese skipper is appearing in a record-extending sixth Euros and has scored 14 times in the competition, far ahead of French great Michel Platini’s runner-up tally of nine.
Team’s coach Roberto Martinez said the team’s leading striker’s tears were a sign of how much this all means to him.
“When you see a player, the only player to play in six Euros, with the desire and that belief (of a) young man, those emotions are incredible for someone who has won everything and experienced everything,” said the Spanish coach.
“He doesn’t need to care that much and that is why I thank him… I was certain he had to be the first taker (in the shoot-out) and show us our way to the victory.
“Everyone is very proud of our captain. He gives us all a lesson, to have real high standards and never give up.”
After the match, Ronaldo in a social media post said: “Inexplicable moments. Let’s give it our all! Thank you.”
(With input from AFP)