Friday, June 28

Portugal coach praises Cristiano Ronaldo after qualifying for the round of 16 of Euro 2024

Sergio Silva Avatar

By Sergio Silva

Jun 22, 2024, 7:15 PM EDT

This Saturday, Portugal became one of the three qualified so far for the round of 16 of the Euro 2024 Germany Cup after an important victory against Türkiye (0-3) in which Cristiano Ronaldo once again left his mark becoming the all-time leader in assists in the tournament.

That is why the Portuguese coach, the Spanish Roberto Martínez, made a special mention of the performance of the Portuguese captain who, although he has not yet debuted as a scorer in this edition of the Euro Cup, is still a fundamental piece in his team. country.

“We have seen something very special. A great forward goes one-on-one with the goalkeeper and looks for an assist. A wonderful example”assured the Spanish coach about the play that closed the game and that ended in Bruno Fernandes’ goal after receiving the ball from Cristiano Ronaldo.

The moment of Cristiano Ronaldo's celebration after Bruno Fernandes' goal at the end of Portugal's victory over Turkey this Saturday in Dortmund.
The moment of Cristiano Ronaldo’s celebration after Bruno Fernandes’ goal at the end of Portugal’s victory over Turkey this Saturday in Dortmund.
Credit: MIGUEL A. LOPES | EFE

“It should be shown in academies throughout Portugal. “Cristiano and Pepe are great examples for the world of football.”added the technical director, highlighting the level shown by both players who are the oldest in the competition at 39 and 41 years old, respectively.

For the Portuguese coach, the victory against the Turks, which allows them to follow in the footsteps of Germany and Spain as the only ones qualified so far for the round of 16 of the championship, has its merit taking into account the level shown this Saturday.

“Türkiye has a lot of talent, but we don’t let them play. “We managed the pace of the game and maintained defensive concentration.”Roberto Martínez highlighted, recognizing the good work his team did to add their second victory after the victory against the Czech Republic (1-2).

A small fan went onto the field to look for a photo with Cristiano Ronaldo who received him with a smile.  Then at least three more people tried.
A small fan went onto the field to look for a photo with Cristiano Ronaldo who received him with a smile. Then at least three more people tried.
Credit: FRIEDEMANN VOGEL | EFE

According to the Spaniard, the key to this good start to the tournament that the Portuguese National Team is having is largely due to the great group work as well as the important individuals it has, among them Cristiano Ronaldo.

“The best way to do it is to have tactical flexibility. We can play lines of five, four and increase our individual talent. This work is very important, allowing the team to execute tactical flexibility with synchronization. “That is very difficult in the world of football.”considered.

The Portuguese National Team will now face Georgia in the closing of Group F next Wednesday in a match that is inconsequential for the Portuguese although vital for the Georgians who, after their draw this Saturday against the Czech Republic (1-1), remain with options to win. advance to the next instance.

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