Prior to Cristiano Ronaldo’s penalty kick in Portugal’s Nations League match against Denmark, Bruno Fernandes seemed to celebrate.
After losing 1-0 in the first leg last week, the 40-year-old was given the opportunity to give his team the lead for the evening when he was sent off five minutes into the match.
Ronaldo, who is often dependable, stepped up and appeared certain to add to his record of 135 goals for his country. Fernandes seemed to celebrate a successful spot kick before the Al-Nassr striker had even touched the ball, demonstrating that even at his advanced years, there is still a lot of faith in the Portugal talisman.
Unfortunately for the Man United player, his countryman stumbled over his words, but because Ronaldo’s attempt was so impressive, he was mostly spared the mockery.
A grateful Kasper Schmeichel only had to take a step to his left to trap the ball as the striker unexpectedly rolled it into his arms. However, Ronaldo scored later in the 5-2 victory.
Ronaldo made his mistake just hours after he scolded reporters for their “disrespectful” inquiries about his future with the national team.
To be honest, a few of your inquiries were downright rude. When questioned whether he is still able to play an entire game at the international level, Ronaldo responded, “Look me in the eyes when you ask if you want answers from me.”
The press was very critical of Ronaldo for his performance in last week’s first leg against Denmark, even though he did eventually get his name on the scoresheet in a furious match.
Additionally, following his Sunday penalty miss, supporters once again questioned whether the greatest goal scorer in football history still had what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
‘That’s one of the worst penalty kicks I’ve ever seen from Cristiano Ronaldo,’ a fan commented on Xbox.
Someone else wrote: “RETIRE OLD MAN.” THIS IS IT. I have never saw a football player impose such a severe penalty. “What’s wrong with Ronaldo?” inquired a third.
After losing in the quarterfinals of Euro 2024, Portugal has had a difficult season under Roberto Martinez.
Since failing to score a goal throughout the competition, Ronaldo’s place in the team has been questioned.
With five goals, Ronaldo is still tied for fourth place as the top scorer in this edition of the Nations League, despite the intense attention he has received recently.
Ronaldo would earn the third trophy with his country if Portugal won the competition. The team has already won Euro 2016 and the Nations League in its first appearance.