Cristiano Ronaldo has made history by becoming the first player to participate in six European Championships as Portugal kicked off their 2024 campaign with a 2-1 victory over Czechia. Even though Ronaldo, who is 39 years old, did not score in the match, he played a crucial role in Portugal’s offensive plays. He missed a key opportunity in the first half and had a shot saved just before halftime, as well as a header deflected over the crossbar early in the second half.
Ronaldo made his Euro debut back in 2004 on home soil, scoring his first goal in the tournament against Czechia. Now, two decades later, he faced the same team in the opening match of his sixth championship. The veteran player expressed his excitement for the new chapter in Portugal’s history and highlighted the talent and determination of his teammates in a post-match statement.
Apart from Ronaldo’s milestone, Portugal’s centre-back Pepe also made history by becoming the oldest player to participate in a European Championship at 41 years and 113 days. With a star-studded attacking lineup that includes players like João Félix, Gonçalo Ramos, and Rafael Leão, Ronaldo remains the team’s key striker and captain for the tournament.
Despite Portugal’s victory, questions have been raised about the team’s performance, with some critics pointing out that they have more questions than answers following the match. The upcoming games against Georgia and Turkey in Group F will provide a clearer picture of Portugal’s form and potential in the tournament.
Ronaldo’s legacy in the European Championships is unmatched, with a record 14 goals to his name. He holds the record for the most goals scored by any player in the history of the competition, with five goals in a single campaign during the 2020 edition. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Ronaldo and his quest to lead Portugal to another triumph on the international stage.
In conclusion, Ronaldo’s record-breaking achievement and Portugal’s opening victory have set the stage for an exciting Euro 2024 tournament. With a mix of experienced veterans and talented young players, Portugal aims to make a strong statement in the competition and add to their list of accolades. As the journey unfolds, football fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see if Ronaldo and his team can rise to the occasion and claim European glory once again.