Cristiano Ronaldo’s illustrious career took an unexpected turn on Wednesday as Portugal suffered a shock 2-0 defeat to Georgia in their final Group F match of Euro 2024.
Despite already securing their place in the last 16, Portugal’s performance left much to be desired, and Ronaldo found himself breaking a record he would rather forget.
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez made eight changes to the starting lineup, underestimating Georgia, who made their tournament debut. The gamble backfired spectacularly.
Just 93 seconds into the match, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Napoli’s star winger, delivered a stunning finish into the bottom corner, putting Georgia ahead. The situation worsened for Portugal when Georges Mikautadze doubled the lead with a second-half penalty, sealing a historic win for the underdogs.
Cristiano Ronaldo Breaks Unwanted Record in Frustrating Euro 2024 Group Stage
For Ronaldo, the night was particularly frustrating. Marking his 50th appearance at a European Championship or World Cup, the 39-year-old failed to find the net.
His three shots on goal yielded just one on target, and he was substituted shortly after the hour mark. This performance marked the first time in his career that Ronaldo failed to score in the group stage of a major international tournament.
Ronaldo’s struggles were evident from the start. He showed flashes of his trademark determination, but the Georgian defense, buoyed by their early lead, thwarted his every attempt. His frustration peaked in the first half when he received a booking for angrily appealing for a penalty.
Post-match, Martinez defended his captain’s reaction, criticizing the VAR decision that denied Portugal a spot-kick. “Cristiano had every right to be frustrated,” Martinez told reporters.
“The VAR should have been more consistent. The penalty situation was clear.”
The defeat exposed Portugal’s vulnerability and their overreliance on Ronaldo. Martinez acknowledged the team’s poor start and credited Georgia for their tenacity.
“We conceded early and struggled to recover,” Martinez admitted.
“Georgia capitalized on their key moments and their goalkeeper was outstanding. We need to congratulate them.”
Looking ahead, Portugal must regroup quickly as they prepare to face Slovenia in the last 16 at Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt. Ronaldo, despite his recent struggles, remains hopeful of making an impact.
His 44-goal season with Al-Nassr demonstrates that he still possesses the ability to turn games on their head.
As the knockout stages loom, Ronaldo’s leadership and experience will be crucial. The legendary forward has faced numerous challenges throughout his career, and overcoming this latest setback will be another testament to his resilience.
Portugal fans will be hoping that Ronaldo can rediscover his scoring touch and lead the team deep into the tournament.
Ronaldo’s quest for international glory continues next Monday evening, with the eyes of the football world firmly on him. Can he silence the critics and add to his incredible legacy? Only time will tell.
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