The football icon was reduced to tears when his extra-time spot-kick was thwarted in the last 16 tie on Monday (01.07.24) but he later stepped to score from 12 yards as Portugal prevailed on penalties to reach the quarter-finals.

An emotional Ronaldo - who told Portuguese media that this would be his last Euros - said after the match: "Even the strongest people have their [bad] days. I was at rock bottom when the team needed me the most.

"Sadness at the start is joy at the end. That's what football is. Moments, inexplicable moments. I feel sad and happy at the same time.

"But the important thing is to enjoy it. The team did an extraordinary job. We fought right to the end and I think we deserved it because we had more authority."

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez praised Ronaldo's dedication to the game and says that the captain is an "example" to all players in the country.

He said: "When you see a player, the only player to play in six Euros, with the desire and that belief [like a] young man - those emotions are incredible for someone who has won everything and experienced everything.

"He doesn't need to care that much and that is why I thank him for the way he is. For caring for the group. For being someone who after missing a penalty was the first penalty taker [in the shootout].

"I knew for certain he had to be the first penalty taker and show us the way to the victory. We are all very, very proud of our captain.

"The dressing room was delighted and I think he gave us a lesson in having real high standards and never giving up. Life and football give you difficult moments and he is an example that we are really proud of in Portuguese football."