Portugal Secures Quarter-Final Spot with Penalty Shootout Victory

Portugal triumphed over Slovenia 3-0 in a penalty shootout, advancing to the Euro 2024 quarter-finals where they will face France.

Cristiano Ronaldo made history as the first player to score a penalty in three separate shootouts at the Euros. At 39 years old, he also became the oldest player to convert a spot-kick in the European Championship.

Portugal Captain Cristiano Ronaldo:

“Sadness at the start is joy at the end. That’s what football is. Moments, inexplicable moments.

“A direct shot to give the team the lead. I didn’t manage it. [Jan] Oblak made a good save… I have to see the penalty, I don’t know if I shot well or badly, but I haven’t missed once all year, and when I needed it most, Oblak saved it.

“I think Portugal deserved it because we had more authority. Slovenia spent almost the entire game defending… it’s very difficult and the whole team is to be congratulated, especially our goalkeeper who made three very good saves.”

Portugal was always on top of it, pressing hard, but for one reason or another, didn’t score.

“The pitch wasn’t great, it was very tough but I’d say all things considered, we were better. We deservedly reached the quarter-finals.

“We’re still very excited, we want to enjoy our game, give the fans some joy and happiness and this is our life. This is how we live.”